Israeli army distances itself from settler terrorism: 'Hilltop Youth' are real criminals

A senior Israeli security official describes members of the 'Hilltop Youth' organization as 'savage creatures' and 'criminals', contrary to Netanyahu's description of them as a 'bunch', and says their number ranges between 300 and 500 youths, who initiate raids aimed at expelling Palestinians. The army is trying to distance itself from settler terrorism following international pressure.

A senior Israeli security official describes members of the terrorist settler organization 'Hilltop Youth' as 'savage creatures' and 'criminals in every sense of the word', in stark contrast to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's description of them as a 'bunch'. The official, quoted by Yedioth Ahronoth on Wednesday, estimated the organization's hard core at about 300 to 500 youths, stressing that they no longer claim their actions are a response to Palestinian operations, but rather initiate raids aimed at carrying out expulsions. He added that those who say they are a 'bunch' do not want to solve the problem. This statement comes in the context of the Israeli army's attempt to distance itself from settler terrorism, following international uproar and threats from central European countries to impose economic sanctions on settlements. However, the newspaper indicates that army forces support settler terrorism and participate in their attacks against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. The official also criticized the political support for these terrorists, noting that there are Knesset members and ministers who visit illegal outposts and give them full support.