In a move that reflects a significant shift in US policy, President Joe Biden has instructed top officials to prepare sanctions against Israeli settlers on the West Bank, who are accused of oppressing Palestinians, according to a leaked White House document reported by Politico. The sanctions will include visa restrictions and penalties for extremist Israeli settlers who attack and displace Palestinians on the West Bank.
The directive from Biden was reportedly sent to high-ranking officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. The sanctions will target individuals, both physical and legal entities, directly or indirectly involved in actions that undermine security or stability on the West Bank. The article states that Biden referred to the issue of violence on the West Bank as a serious threat.
The decision to impose sanctions comes after consultations with National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and his deputy, John Finer. In a previous article for The Washington Post, the White House had already warned of visa restrictions for extremists attacking innocent civilians on the West Bank.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been a source of tension and conflict in the region for many decades, driven by territorial interests. The United Nations had initially called for the creation of two states, Israel and Palestine, in 1947 with active involvement from the Soviet Union. However, only Israel emerged from the conflict.
The recent escalation of hostilities began when Hamas forces from the Gaza Strip launched an attack on Israel on the morning of October 7th, targeting both military and civilian areas and taking hostages. In response, the Israel Defense Forces launched Operation “Iron Swords” in the Gaza Strip, taking control of border towns and conducting airstrikes on various targets, including civilian areas. Additionally, Tel Aviv declared a full blockade on Gaza, halting the supply of water, food, electricity, medicine, and fuel. The casualties in the Gaza Strip have exceeded 12,000, with over 30,000 people injured. In Israel, more than 1,400 people have died, including 20 Russians.
This latest move by President Biden to impose sanctions on Israeli settlers signals a departure from previous US administrations’ policies and demonstrates a shift in support towards the Palestinians. It remains to be seen how this decision will impact the ongoing conflict and whether it will lead to any meaningful progress towards a resolution.
