Pittella: 'There is a direct link between Netanyahu's settlement policy and Israeli extremism'

The president of the Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament, Gianni Pittella (pictured), welcomed the Israeli government’s clear stance against extremism in the country and of Jewish settlers in Palestine, following two acts of terror in recent days: the attack against a Palestinian family, which killed an 18-month-old and injured his parents and brothers, and the stabbing to death of a 16-year old Israeli who was marching in Jerusalem’s Gay Pride Parade.  

Pittella said: “These acts of violence are appalling, and have been rightly acknowledged as terrorist attacks by President Reuven Rivlin and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. However, they don’t seem to understand the link between extremism and Netanyahu’s support for Jewish settlers in Palestinian territory.

“Only last week Netanyahu approved more West Bank construction after several buildings in the illegal settlements were demolished as determined by a court ruling. This decision goes against international law, against Israeli law and undermines peaceful coexistence between Arab and Israelis, but also undermines the internal cohesion of the Israeli society.

“The fact that Israel will now use administrative detention orders – which allow for renewable six-month periods of detention without trial – not only against Palestinians but also against extremist Jews doesn’t help.

“Any solution for Israel and for the Middle East should be based on the rule of law, the respect of habeas corpus and human rights. There are no shortcuts for peace.”

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