On Friday, the United States sanctioned an ally of Israel’s far-right national security minister. Additionally, two entities raising money for accused settler violence faced sanctions. These actions target those blamed for escalating violence in the occupied West Bank.
The sanctions, in addition to those already imposed on five settlers and two unauthorised outposts already this year, are the latest sign of growing US frustration with the policies of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The moves on Friday, which freeze any US assets held by those targeted and generally bar Americans from dealing with them, hit two organisations that launched fundraising campaigns to support settlers accused of violence and targeted by previous sanctions, the Treasury said in a statement.
State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said members of the group had engaged in “destabilising violence affecting the West Bank”.
“Under Gopstein’s leadership, Lehava and its members have been involved in acts or threats of violence against Palestinians, often targeting sensitive or volatile areas,” Miller said in a statement, warning of additional steps if Israel does not take measures to prevent extremist attacks amid an escalation of violence in the occupied territory in recent days.
Moving forward to the third paragraph, the imposition of sanctions on an ally of an Israeli minister sends a clear message about the U.S. stance on settlements. It underscores the Biden administration’s efforts to recalibrate U.S. policy in the region and reignite diplomatic efforts towards achieving a lasting peace agreement. However, the effectiveness of sanctions in changing behavior and advancing the peace process remains uncertain. Ultimately, the path to peace in the Middle East requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of the conflict and fosters meaningful dialogue between all parties involved.
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