Jerusalem, Israel – The United States has implemented new sanctions against extremist settlers in the West Bank who are reportedly funded by the Israeli government. These measures come as part of Washington’s efforts to address the escalating settler violence in the region.
The sanctions specifically target one organization, Hashomer Yosh, and an individual, Yitzhak Levi Filant, known for their involvement in intimidating Palestinians to seize their land. Both have now been designated as “specially designated nationals” by the US Treasury, blocking their assets and prohibiting any interactions with US citizens and companies.
Hashomer Yosh, despite its official status as a non-governmental organization, has received funding and support from Israel’s rightwing coalition, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The group has played a significant role in providing security for illegal settler outposts in the West Bank, contributing to the ongoing tensions in the region.
Yitzhak Levi Filant, the security coordinator at Yitzhar settlement, was also targeted by the sanctions for engaging in activities beyond the scope of his authority, such as leading armed settlers to expel Palestinians from their lands. These actions have raised concerns about the involvement of Israeli authorities in supporting settler violence.
The Biden administration’s decision to impose sanctions reflects growing frustration with the Netanyahu government’s failure to curb settler violence. The US measures aim to hold individuals and organizations accountable for promoting extremist violence in the West Bank, signaling a shift in US policy towards addressing the long-standing conflict in the region.
In response to the sanctions, Netanyahu’s office expressed strong objection, highlighting the ongoing discussions with US officials regarding the issue. The impact of these sanctions on Israel’s ability to fund Hashomer Yosh and support individuals like Filant remains to be seen, as they may face challenges in maintaining financial support from domestic and international sources.
The US sanctions come in the wake of increased tensions in the West Bank, with Israeli forces conducting raids against Palestinian militants. Concerns have been raised about the impact of settler violence on escalating conflicts in the region, further complicating efforts to achieve peace and stability in the area. The ongoing dialogue between US and Israeli officials reflects the complexities of addressing the root causes of violence and insecurity in the West Bank.
Overall, the new sanctions highlight the Biden administration’s commitment to promoting accountability and addressing extremist violence in the West Bank. The move underscores the need for all parties involved to prioritize peaceful resolutions and constructive dialogue to prevent further escalation of tensions in the region.