B'Tselem and a broad coalition of human rights organisations have issued an urgent call for immediate international action to halt escalating violence across the West Bank, demanding measures to stop violence and prevent potential pogroms carried out by settler militias and the Israeli army.
Escalation of violence and property destruction
According to the statement, recent days have seen a surge in violence enabled and supported by the Israeli army. This escalation includes the destruction and torching of Palestinian property, alongside the forced expulsion of families and communities. Human rights groups criticise much of the international community for silence and inaction, which they argue allows the violence to intensify.
Flashpoint in the village of Tell
Tensions reached a critical point following an event in the village of Tell (Area B), where a settlers' tour concluded with the killing of at least four Palestinians and one settler, leaving several others injured. This incident has triggered further unrest, with ministers, Knesset members, and settlers demanding additional revenge attacks that have already begun spreading across the West Bank.
Past experience demonstrates that such incidents can rapidly escalate into mass pogroms if met with international silence.
Demands and enforcing international law
The coalition is pressing the international community to place immediate pressure on Israel to halt further attacks, prevent additional killings and pogroms, and guarantee the protection of Palestinians under international law.
Supporting organizations
The urgent call is supported by numerous organisations, including Adalah, Akevot, Bimkom, Breaking the Silence, B'Tselem, Emek Shaveh, Gisha, HaMoked, Haqel, Human Rights Defenders Fund, Ir Amim, Leap, MachsomWatch, Parents Against Child Detention, Peace Now, Physicians for Human Rights Israel, Rabbis for Human Rights,UCPIP, Yesh Din, and Zazim.