State Department Takes Action
The State Department has announced the imposition of financial sanctions on four Israeli nationals for their destabilizing acts in the West Bank. This decision follows the visa restrictions imposed in December on individuals who contributed to violence and instability in the region.
Executive Order to Curb Extremist Settler Violence
An executive order issued by the White House highlights the record levels of “extremist settler violence” in the West Bank in 2023. The sanctions will ban dozens of settlers and their families from traveling to or conducting business in the United States. The order targets those who engage in acts or threats of violence against civilians, intimidate them, destroy property, or engage in terrorist activity.
American Citizen Killed in West Bank
The decision to impose sanctions came after the tragic death of a 17-year-old American citizen, Abedel Jabbar, who was allegedly shot and killed by an Israeli settler while visiting the West Bank in January. Jabbar’s family stated that he had taken the trip to learn more about his Palestinian heritage.
US Stands Against Extremist Violence
Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized that there is no justification for extremist violence against civilians. Regardless of their nationality, ethnicity, or religion, such acts are unacceptable.
Individuals Subject to Sanctions
The four individuals facing financial sanctions are David Chai Chasdai, Einan Tanjil, Shalom Zicherman, and Yinon Levi. Chasdai is accused of leading a riot that resulted in the death of a Palestinian civilian. Tanjil participated in assaulting Palestinian farmers and Israeli activists. Zicherman was seen on video assaulting Israeli activists and their vehicles, while Levi is accused of leading a group of settlers who created fear in the West Bank.
Response from Israeli Government
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office issued a statement, acknowledging that the majority of settlers in the West Bank are law-abiding citizens. Netanyahu emphasized that Israel takes action against those who break the law and deemed exceptional measures unnecessary. Finance Minister Benjamin Smotrich labeled accusations of violence by settlers as “antisemitic lies” and reaffirmed that settlements will continue despite the sanctions.