Israelis who rely on Judaism to protect West Bank Palestinians

Israeli citizens who identify with Jewish traditions are increasingly taking steps to safeguard Palestinian residents of the occupied West Bank, according to recent reports. Since the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack that claimed over 1,200 lives, tensions have escalated in multiple fronts, Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran, but a parallel crisis has emerged within Israel itself. Violence by primarily Orthodox Jewish settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank has surged, resulting in approximately 1,100 Palestinian deaths in incidents involving settlers or Israeli security forces since 2023. The United Nations noted an average of six such attacks per day during the first half of 2026. The situation has sparked widespread concern among Israeli citizens. An April opinion poll revealed that nearly two-thirds of respondents believed that “settler violence constitutes a serious problem amounting to Jewish terrorism” and that it negatively affects Israel’s international reputation. Despite this, a growing segment of both secular and religiously observant Jews is engaging in a unique form of activism known as “protective presence.” This initiative involves individuals regularly visiting and sometimes staying overnight in Palestinian communities to prevent settler attacks. Rabbi Arik Ascherman, a prominent figure associated with the Rabbis for Human Rights organization, emphasized that “Not leaving Palestinians alone is a thundering command emanating from Jewish history and Jewish tradition.” His remarks reflect a broader movement rooted in Jewish ethical teachings, which advocates for a more inclusive understanding of national identity and communal responsibility. This approach challenges traditional narratives that prioritize territorial control over human rights and mutual coexistence. In July, a coalition of over 550 retired high-ranking military and security officials penned an open letter addressed to former U.S. president Donald Trump. They urged him to bring attention to the issue with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, warning that the government was enabling certain groups, armed and driven by messianic motivations, to operate beyond legal boundaries. These officials argued that such actions contradict democratic values and the rule of law. The West Bank, home to around three million Palestinians, has remained under Israeli occupation since the 1967 Six-Day War. While Israel permits the establishment and expansion of Jewish settlements in the territory, these activities are widely regarded as violations of international law. Analysts view the West Bank as a critical area for potential future negotiations regarding the creation of a Palestinian state. For many Israelis, particularly those seeking to reconcile faith with modern democratic ideals, the challenge lies in redefining what it means to be Jewish while fostering peace and security for all inhabitants. Some activists argue that true spiritual connection to the land necessitates a deeper relationship with its current residents. One religious activist stated, “There is no real connection to the land without connection to the people who live on it.” They further remarked that ancestral ties to the region extend beyond historical narratives, emphasizing the importance of building a shared sacred space that accommodates diverse identities. This evolving perspective represents a shift in how some Israelis interpret their religious heritage. It suggests a path toward reconciliation that integrates ethical imperatives with political realities, potentially offering a model for sustainable peace in the region. As these efforts continue, they remain a subject of ongoing debate and reflection within Israeli society.