“They Face Terror With Courage”: Netanyahu Rejects Anti-Settler Campaign

Netanyahu Meets U.S. Senate Leaders, Defends Israel’s Settlers

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with top U.S. Senate leaders on Capitol Hill in Washington, where he dismissed efforts to raise the issue of ‘settler violence.’ He received strong bipartisan support for Israel’s firm stance against Iran and Hamas.

The campaign targeting Israel’s settlers began even before the Iron Swords War but gained momentum after an August 2024 letter from Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar. Over the past year, foreign governments and international organizations have attempted to sanction Israeli settlers and organizations supporting Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria. Netanyahu directly confronted these accusations during his visit on Thursday evening.

“They Face Terror with Courage”

A senior Israeli official reported that Netanyahu forcefully rejected attempts to bring up the topic of ‘settler violence’ during his meeting with members of Congress.

“99.9% of our settlers are law-abiding, normative citizens. They face Arab terrorism with great courage,” Netanyahu stated.

He underscored that Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria are on the front lines of Israel’s national security, enduring daily terror threats and violent attacks.

Strong, Unwavering Support for Israel

Netanyahu also held talks with bipartisan Senate leadership, in what was described as a “warm and friendly” meeting.

The senators expressed full, unequivocal support for Netanyahu and Israel, commending the IDF’s strength and determination in its multi-front war against terror. Netanyahu outlined Israel’s national priorities, stressing the importance of: Preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, eliminating Hamas in Gaza, and strengthening Israel’s rightful presence in its biblical homeland.

The Senate leaders gave full backing to Israel’s efforts, reinforcing the deep, historic ties between the United States and Israel.

Senators Pledge to Advance Legislation Against The Hague

During the meeting, the senators pledged to move forward with legislation against the International Criminal Court (ICC), building on the executive orders previously signed by President Donald Trump. Senators also asked Netanyahu about Israel’s major military successes in the ongoing war. Netanyahu credited the remarkable bravery of IDF soldiers, stating: “Our victories on the battlefield are thanks to the courage and resilience of our troops. They are fighting to protect Israel and defend the values we all hold dear.”