Jerusalem Day violence exposes dangerous culture of impunity in Israel - opinion

Jerusalem Day, intended to celebrate the city's reunification, has become marred by violence from far-right extremists targeting Arab residents. This year's events, including the assault on Peace Now head Lior Amihai in the West Bank, underscore a dangerous culture of impunity that critics say is tolerated and even encouraged by the Israeli government.

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These two separate incidents displayed the same violence and the same culture of impunity.

While thugs exist in all democracies, the article argues that in Israel, they are not only tolerated but actively supported by government officials. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's participation in the Jerusalem Day march, waving the Israeli flag on Temple Mount, is cited as an example of irresponsibly fanning confrontation. The situation in the West Bank is similarly dire, with violent settlers terrorizing Palestinian civilians for months facing minimal repercussions.

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The problem here is that they are not only tolerated but encouraged to act by the very government of this democracy, as illustrated by the infamous National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir’s participation in this march, waving the Israeli flag on Temple Mount, yet again irresponsibly fanning the flames of confrontation.

Defense Minister Israel Katz's revocation of administrative detention for settlers and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's influence over civilian matters in the West Bank are presented as further evidence of de facto judicial and political impunity for settlers. This environment, the article suggests, fosters a "thuggish mentality" that pursues a racist agenda through violence, not only against Arabs but also against Jews perceived as "fifth columnists" or "enemies from within."

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When Defense Minister Israel Katz revoked administrative detention for the settlers upon taking over Yoav Gallant’s position as his first order of business, he sent them the unmistakable message of impunity.

With elections looming, there is a genuine concern that this culture of impunity could lead to increased violence. The fear of losing power might prompt extremist elements to create chaos, assault Arabs, and intimidate opponents, further destabilizing the region and eroding democratic norms.

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The assault on Lior Amihai, the head of Peace Now, in the West Bank on Jerusalem Day, is a direct consequence of such a culture of impunity.