Meretz MK Yair Golan apologized Thursday for calling the settlers of Homesh outpost in Judea and Samaria "subhuman."
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In an interview with Channel 12 News, Golan said, "I regret the remark, which may have included a problematic wording [as it was said] in an emotional state and out of anger."
Golan's comments against the residents of the illegal settlement sparked outrage from across the political spectrum, with right-wing lawmakers calling for his dismissal and Prime Minister Naftali Bennett saying the remark "bordered on a blood libel."
Nevertheless, despite apologizing for the wording, Golan, who is deputy economy minister, stood by his criticism of Homesh residents.
"The problem isn't my remarks, but that there is a gang that systematically and consistently harms innocent people and IDF soldiers," he said. "Perhaps one can say they are 'despicable thugs.'
"This is the bitter truth, even if [people] don't like to hear it."
Golan is not the first lawmaker to have sparked furor with remarks concerning Homesh.
In December, Public Security Minister Omer Barlev was lambasted by bereaved families and right-wing lawmakers for discussing perceived settler violence against Palestinians in Judea and Samaria with Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland.
Shortly after, Homesh resident Yehuda Dimantman was killed by Palestinian terrorists, which far-right-wing MKs said was the result of incitement by Barlev.
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