Israeli settler leader seeks European backing: ‘The world isn’t entirely against us’

Yosef Dagan, head of the Samaria Regional Council, has embarked on a campaign to build political support across Europe, declaring that Israel’s international position is not entirely lost. Speaking to Israeli media, Dagan insisted that Tel Aviv can forge international coalitions to counter what he characterises as a propaganda campaign against the country. “This is our second battle — countering the lies and misinformation,” he stated during the interview.

Dagan’s comments reflect broader efforts by Israeli settlement leadership to reshape international perceptions amid sustained criticism from European governments and civil society organisations regarding Israeli policy in occupied territories. The settler leader’s diplomatic push comes as Israel faces mounting diplomatic pressure over its military operations and settlement expansion policies.

On the question of future policy in Gaza and the West Bank, Dagan advocated for a hardline approach, calling for a combination of military strength and continued settlement activities. He specifically called for Israeli forces to return to northern Gaza, framing such a military presence as a deterrent message to Israel’s adversaries. His remarks underscore the ideological divide within Israeli politics regarding the future of occupied Palestinian territories.

Source: Ynet — Original article in Hebrew.