Inside Story

Israel’s stance: Provocation or deterrence?

Attack on synagogue in West Jerusalem is deepening divisions between Israelis and Palestinians.

Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, has promised a harsh response after two Palestinians attacked a synagogue, killing five people.

Israel has introduced new measures to punish those who attack Israelis. One of the controversial steps includes demolishing their homes.

But critics say it is counterproductive and could worsen an already volatile situation.

The attack on the synagogue comes as Jerusalem is facing tensions over the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound.

Both sides blame each other for the worsening situation.

Netanyahu accuses Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas of incitement. Abbas says Israel is stirring religious tensions and must end provocations.

So, will Israel’s measures to prevent future attacks worsen an already volatile situation?

And could the growing focus on the Al-Aqsa Mosque complicate this decades-long conflict?

Presenter: Jane Dutton

Guests:

Toby Cadman – Barrister at 9 Bedford Row and international criminal law specialist.

Gil Hoffman – Chief Political Correspondent for the Jerusalem Post.

Amjad Salfiti – Human rights lawyer and head of the UK chapter of the Arab Organisation for Human Rights.