Former Israeli generals, intelligence officials and former prime ministers have warned that violence by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank poses a greater threat to Israel than Iran, Gaza or Lebanon. Retired Major General Eyal Ben-Reuven made the remarks after visiting West Bank communities with other former officials and speaking to Palestinians affected by attacks. They alleged settlers have attacked homes, mosques and villages, set fires, and seized land and livestock.

According to the United Nations, settlers have carried out thousands of attacks in the West Bank since October 7, 2023, injuring thousands of Palestinians. More than 3,200 Palestinians have been displaced by settler attacks this year, twice the previous year’s level, the report said. More than 200 prominent Israelis signed a June letter calling for an end to what it described as “Jewish terrorism” and “ethnic cleansing.”

The Israeli military denied allegations that it assists settler violence, saying its role is to protect all residents. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office did not comment on the accusations, though Netanyahu recently called some incidents criminal acts. Former officials said the violence risks harming Israel’s democracy, security, international standing and prospects for a Palestinian state.