Palestine weekly: Israeli politicians vie to look toughest before election

The final stretch before Israel’s election is unfolding in an increasingly charged political atmosphere, with parties and candidates keenly aware of how every move will play with voters.This week, ministers launched an illegal West Bank settlement at a ceremony that doubled as a stump speech, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defiantly addressed the United Nations General Assembly as delegations walked out.Recommended Stories list of 3 itemslist 1 of 3French far-right leader Jordan Bardella refutes anti-Semitism allegationslist 2 of 3Slovenia’s U-turn towards Israellist 3 of 3UAE confirms Israel PM Netanyahu’s visit to Abu Dhabiend of listNational Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir released another video from an Israeli prison, this time filming himself threatening to kill jailed Hamas figure Hassan Salameh. Meanwhile, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called for the army to “go to war” in the occupied West Bank.All of this unfolded as the Jewish festival of Sukkot arrived, bringing closures and incursions at Al-Aqsa Mosque.Settlement openings, demolitions and holiday closuresOn September 23, Israeli ministers and members of parliament attended the founding ceremony of the new i...