Rep. Smith Statement on West Bank Settler Violence

WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 19, 2026) - Today, Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09) released the following statement:

"Unchecked settler violence in the West Bank is unacceptable. Within the last several days, Palestinians, European diplomats, and American journalist Heidi Levine have faced horrifying attacks by settlers.

Condemnations, opening of investigations, and the arrest of 10 settlers today is a start, but far more must be done to rein in settler violence. When Prime Minister Netanyahu's government retroactively legalizes outposts, when Finance Minister Smotrich and National Security Minister Ben-Gvir openly support settlement expansion, and when settlement projects such as E1 are allowed to proceed, all these actions enable further settler violence.

We must ensure perpetrators of instability in the West Bank are held accountable. Congress should pass the West Bank Violence Prevention Act, legislation I introduced with Representatives Nadler and Himes that would sanction individuals and entities destabilizing the West Bank. Those threatening peace and stability in the West Bank must face consequences to prevent further terror and unrest."

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