Aharonovitch: Probe Druse abuse

Soldiers are allegedly victims of racism from West Bank settlers.

By YAAKOV LAPPIN
West Bank construction work [illustrative] (photo credit: AP)
West Bank construction work [illustrative]
(photo credit: AP)
Allegations of ongoing racial abuse of Druse IDF soldiers and police officers by settlers who are angry at the West Bank construction freeze must be investigated immediately, Public Security Minister Yitzhak Aharonovitch said on Sunday.
Citing IDF sources, Hebrew media reports said Druse security personnel serving in the Civil Administration and the Border Police have been repeatedly targeted by derogatory and racist comments by a number of settlers in the West Bank recently.
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In addition,  anonymously authored leaflets have been distributed in the area which described Druse members of the security forces as "Arab police" tasked with guarding Palestinians.
Responding to the reports,  Public Security Minister Yitzhak Aharonovitch has called on Police Insp.-Gen. David Cohen and state prosecutors to launch an immediate investigation.
"If the suspicions turn out to be true, these are acts that are entirely shameful. The security forces, who endanger their lives in various areas around the country, must receive support rather than this disgraceful treatment. There must be no discrimination, and if the suspicions turn out to be true, those responsible must be brought to justice quickly," Aharonovitch said.
"These comments against Druse are unacceptable, and are aimed at denigrating a group which is seen as a model in its contribution to the state. I am committed to continuing the support of officers and soldiers who carry out holy work," he added.