Israel's Katz Hails Settlers for 'Holding Onto' Palestinian Land The recent praise from Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz for the Hilltop Youth settlers has sparked outrage and concern among those following the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
On its surface, Katz's comments seem like a petty endorsement of a fringe group. However, they reveal a disturbing trend that speaks to a deeper issue: the normalization of occupation.
Katz's remarks are particularly egregious given the circumstances. The Hilltop Youth settlers have been involved in numerous incidents of violence against Palestinians, including vandalism and attacks on villages.