Davidi Pearl, the head of the Gush Etzion Regional Council, has commented on the recent destruction of the nearby "lone oak" monument.
"It is sad to keep discovering the lack of respect that accompanies the conduct of the Arabs who support terror," said Pearl. "This shameful act is not typical of the Arabs residents who live alongside the Jewish communities with mutual respect. Gush Etzion, which has been known since its founding for respecting the land and its fellow residents, will continue to be a center for light and respect. In contrast to all our enemies, we will hold fast to the land of the Gush, we will respect the early founders, and we will continue and add to the light and the good."