By Maryam Ahmad
A former head of Israel’s intelligence agency has sharply condemned rising settler violence in the West Bank, saying it has left him “ashamed to be a Jew.”
Tamir Pardo, who led Mossad from 2011 to 2016, made the remarks in a recent interview, warning that attacks by Israeli settlers on Palestinian communities are eroding Israel’s moral standing and threatening its long-term security. His comments come amid an uptick in reported incidents involving arson, assaults, and property damage in the territory.
Human rights organisations have documented a rise in settler-related violence in recent months, often carried out with limited accountability. Israeli authorities say they are working to curb such incidents, but critics argue enforcement remains inconsistent.
Pardo’s intervention adds to a growing chorus of current and former security officials voicing concern over developments in the West Bank. He urged the government to uphold the rule of law and take decisive action against perpetrators, warning that failure to do so risks further escalation and international isolation.