How did the West Bank situation get even worse? - analysis

Over the past few years, the Israeli defense establishment has struggled to control violent Jewish extremists in the West Bank. Since 2023, there have been numerous such incidents, marking a decline in the defense establishment's ability to curb extremism. The rise of Palestinian terrorism since March 2022, coupled with Itamar Ben-Gvir's control of the police since January 2023, has led to an increase in Jewish anarchists attacking Palestinian civilians.

What started as simple "price tag" spray paintings has escalated into more violent and destructive actions.

In February 2023, one of the first major attacks occurred when Jewish extremists targeted the Palestinian town of Huwara. These attacks have since become more frequent and violent, with mass attacks now common. While Palestinian terrorists have killed more Jews than Jewish terrorists have killed Palestinians, the gap between the two sides has narrowed.

Additionally, Jewish extremists have increasingly targeted IDF soldiers, an issue that has become more frequent. However, the most recent incident stands out - the IDF deployed multiple rounds to remove violent Jewish extremists harassing Palestinian land under Palestinian Authority control. While the IDF claimed to have removed illegal structures built by the extremists, it is unclear when they will fully remove the remaining Jewish extremists.

Trespassing by a few dozen activists into Palestinian areas has become a dangerous issue. These activists have not only harassed Palestinians but have also witnessed violent actions by Jewish extremists, making their presence even more alarming. Despite numerous videos showing their faces and actions, many of these extremists have not been arrested.

This lack of accountability, coupled with the recent support from Defense Minister Israel Katz and Police Commissioner Itamar Ben-Gvir, has emboldened the extremists to continue their violent actions.

The failure of the IDF and police to arrest and punish such violent Jewish extremists has raised concerns about their ability to maintain order. With Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remaining silent on the issue, it remains uncertain if there will be any significant change to this troubling situation.