Israeli Minister Rejects US 'Terror' Label for Deadly Settler Attack

An Israeli minister, Avi Dichter, has dismissed the United States' characterization of the killing of a Palestinian by Israeli settlers as a "terror attack," stating that the US definition is not a precise professional definition and is based on media reports. The US State Department had condemned the attack and called for accountability and justice. The Jerusalem District Court ruled to free the two detained settlers pending possible prosecution. Settler attacks against Palestinians are frequent, often under the protection or coordination of the Israeli army. The UN has warned of a dramatic spike in violence since Israel's right-wing government took office, and the Biden administration has criticized the coalition government's actions and statements. Israel has occupied the West Bank since 1967, and negotiations for a future Palestinian state have stalled. Israel's far-right Finance Minister has refused to allocate funds to Palestinians, citing concerns about incitement and terrorism.