Holy Land: British Consulate condemns 'horrifying' settler violence

Scene of devastation in Huwara

Since the beginning of this year, 62 Palestinian adults and children have been killed by Israeli forces and many hundreds have been injured, some very seriously. Ten Israelis and a Ukrainian tourist have been killed in the same period in attacks by Palestinians.

Across the West Bank illegal Israeli settlers have increased attacks on Palestinian property and olive trees over the last few weeks.

In a statement on Monday, the British Consulate General in Jerusalem said: "Horrifying scenes of settler violence in Hawara town and neighbouring villages yesterday, where nearly 400 Palestinians were injured and dozens of homes, businesses and cars were burned.

"The settlers responsible for this violence must be held accountable.

"UK condemns the killing of Sameh Akch during the same attacks carried out by settlers. Our sincere condolences to his family. Samih was among the rescue team who risked his life to save the earthquake victims in Turkey.

"We urge the government of Israel to hold the perpetrators of this heinous crime accountable."

Last Wednesday the Consulate wrote: "Alarming news from Nablus, where at least 10 Palestinians have been killed and scores injured during an Israeli incursion. The UK calls for an end to the bloodshed which has already taken too many lives in Israel and the OPTs this year. This deadly cycle of violence must end."

Last Monday, the UN Security Council adopted a presidential statement expressing its deep concern and dismay over Israel's recent announcement of further construction and expansion of settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, as well as the "legalization" of settlement outposts, as United Nations senior officials briefed members on the latest developments on the ground.

Read the full statement here: https://press.un.org/en/2023/sc15203.doc.htm

On Sunday during the Angelus with pilgrims in St Peter's Square, Pope Francis expressed his grave concern over the 'spiral of violence' in the Holy Land "which has killed so many people including children."

On Monday, hundreds of Israelis gathered in Tel Aviv to protest at the settlers' violence. Several carried banners saying "Palestinian Lives Matter."

LINK

www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/2/27/unprecedented-israeli-settlers-wreak-havoc-on-occupied-nablus