As tensions continue in the West Bank, a large group of members of the U.S. Congress are calling on President Joe Biden to impose sanctions on two far-right Israeli cabinet ministers. They point to the ministers’ role in inciting settler violence in the region.
There is no denying that settler violence in the West Bank is fueled by inflammatory rhetoric and calls for violence from Israeli cabinet members, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. They, backed by extremist organizations such as Regavim and Amana, have been behind more than 1,270 violent attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank, an average of more than three attacks per day.
The Democrats in Congress who signed the letter to President Biden are calling for specific sanctions against these ministers. Their influence on policies that encourage settler violence, weaken the Palestinian Authority, facilitate de facto and de jure annexation, and the destabilization of the West Bank make them key players in this issue.
It is worth noting that this letter, signed by 17 senators and 71 members of the House of Representatives, was recently made public to put pressure on the Biden administration to act quickly on this issue. The lack of response so far suggests a regrettable lack of action on these sanctions.
Tensions seem to be rising within the Democratic Party in the face of this inaction, making it important for the Biden administration to take a clear and firm position. The issue of sanctions against Smotrich and Ben Gvir cannot be avoided, especially after the recent statements and actions of these ministers, going so far as to announce preparations for the annexation of settlements in the West Bank.
Democrats insist that the executive branch has the necessary authority to act, particularly in light of the executive order issued in February by Joe Biden authorizing sanctions against those who threaten peace and stability in the West Bank. It is clear that time is running out and that concrete steps must be taken to put an end to these unacceptable actions.
The call from members of Congress goes beyond individual sanctions and also targets two organizations, Amana and Regavim, involved in the establishment of settlements in the West Bank. These organizations, in collaboration with the incriminated ministers, actively participate in the destabilization of the region and the threat to the security of Israel, the region, and the national security of the United States.
It is essential that the US government sends a strong signal, confirming its refusal to condone the extreme actions of the Netanyahu government in the West Bank. This issue transcends regional borders and affects international security, fully justifying the implementation of coercive measures to hold accountable the individuals and entities responsible for this destabilization.
At a time when other countries, such as the United Kingdom, are also considering sanctions against these far-right ministers, it is imperative that the United States take a stand without delay. Democratic values and respect for human rights must guide international actions, and it is time for the Biden administration to demonstrate its commitment to these fundamental principles.