U.S. tested by Israeli-Palestinian violence as Blinken visits Middle East
PBS NewsHourDec 23, 2022
The Facts
According to Israeli police, a man plowed his car into a crowded bus stop in Jerusalem on Friday, killing two people, including a six-year-old boy, and injuring five others in what is being called a "ramming terror attack."
Police reportedly shot and killed the suspect at the scene. The second casualty was identified as a man in his 20s, while those injured ranged from eight to 40 years old and are in moderate to severe condition. Police say people were waiting at the bus stop in the Jewish settlement of Ramot in east Jerusalem when the attack occurred.
The Spin
Pro-Israel narrative
This latest attack by a Palestinian extremist, brutally killing an innocent six-year-old boy, illustrates why Israel needs to enhance its efforts to root out terrorism and protect the Israeli people. As tough as his policies are, security minister Ben Gvir has seen many Israelis die on his watch, and it's time he strengthens enforcement. This conflict is not subsiding, and Israel is obligated to defend itself.
Pro-Palestine narrative
All violence is tragic and must be condemned, but people must not forget the violence and oppression first imposed by Israel’s apartheid regime. Palestinians are being abused, dispossessed, and even killed every day, and something must be done to dismantle the occupation of the West Bank. As governments and international organizations increasingly speak out against Israel, they must not cower in the face of public backlash and lobbying efforts.