The United States announced today (Wednesday) the imposition of sanctions on the “HaShomer Judea and Samaria” organization and Yitzhak Levi Flint, the security coordinator of the Yitzhar settlement. According to the GuideStar website, which lists all registered nonprofits and organizations in Israel, the organization’s purpose is described as “strengthening the personal and economic security of farmers, ranches, and herders in Judea and Samaria through volunteer protection to prevent harm and damage to property and land. Assistance with work and security, training, and lectures for volunteers.”
Decrease in Settler Violence
“Violence by extremist settlers in the West Bank causes immense suffering, harms Israel’s security, and undermines the prospects for peace and stability in the region,” said U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller. The American sanctions come following the publication of the IDF’s investigation into the severe events in Jit. However, it should be noted that last December, it was reported that incidents of violence are on a sharp decline, and in any case, the IDF announced that many reports of settler violence were found to be false. According to a report in “Israel Hayom,” it was stated that Major General Fox, then head of the Central Command, was “falling into the trap of extreme anarchists who are heating up the area. They approach Arabs, ignite the area, create friction with the settlers, and then blame them. In many cases, these outside anarchists are the ones who cause the incidents.”
Sanctions on Israeli Ministers?
Tomorrow, the European Union will discuss the imposition of “sanctions for incitement to war crimes” in an “informal” discussion among EU ministers. The discussion will focus on a proposal promoted by the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell, against Finance Minister Smotrich and National Security Minister Ben-Gvir. Borrell, known for his extreme statements against Israel, has long been pushing for these sanctions. It is currently unclear what specific sanctions are being considered.
Prime Minister Netanyahu: “We View This With Great Severity”
About three weeks ago, Prime Minister Netanyahu met with heads of regional councils in Judea and Samaria and addressed the American sanctions on the residents of the area. Following the meeting, Netanyahu’s office stated that he told the council heads he “views the sanctions against the settlers and organizations with great severity” and added that “we are working to prevent this. This is a matter for the entire State of Israel, not just Judea and Samaria.” In contrast, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller reiterated that “violence by extremist settlers in the West Bank causes immense suffering, harms Israel’s security, and undermines the prospects for peace and stability in the region.”
The Prime Minister’s Office responded: “Israel views the imposition of sanctions on its citizens with great severity. The matter is under intense discussion with the United States.”
