President Joe Biden Issues Executive Order on Israeli Settlers in West Bank
WASHINGTON
CNN
Targeting Violent Israeli Settlers in the West Bank
President Joe Biden has issued an executive order targeting violent Israeli settlers in the West Bank, stating that their actions have undermined stability in the region. The order, which will be announced on Thursday, imposes sanctions on several individuals accused of participating in violent acts.
Individuals Targeted by the Executive Order
The executive order specifically targets four individuals accused of directly perpetrating violence or intimidation in the West Bank. The individuals, David Chai Chasdai, Einan Tanjil, Shalom Zicherman, and Yinon Levi, will have their financial assets blocked and will be barred from entering the United States.
Evidence against the Individuals
The State Department has compiled evidence, including information from public reporting, that offers proof of the individuals’ roles in the West Bank violence. The evidence includes videos and eyewitness testimonies of their involvement in activities such as leading riots, assaulting civilians, damaging property, and creating an atmosphere of fear in the West Bank.
Notification to the Israeli Government
The White House has notified the Israeli government of their plans ahead of issuing the executive order. The sanctions on the individuals are not expected to target Israeli government officials.
Efforts to Address Settler Violence
President Biden has condemned acts of violent settler actions in the past and has personally discussed the issue with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The executive order is one of the significant actions taken by President Biden to address settler violence since the recent war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.
Policy against Extremist Israeli Settlers
In December, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced a policy to prevent extremist Israeli settlers responsible for violence in the West Bank from entering the United States. The new policy can be applied to both Israelis and Palestinians responsible for attacks in the region.
Settler Violence and Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
Settler violence against West Bank residents has been a primary flashpoint in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It has intensified since the recent war and resulted in increased casualties. The acts of violence have been a significant concern for both Palestinians and Israelis, as they hinder the prospect of an independent Palestinian state.
President Biden’s Response
President Biden acknowledged the suffering of both Israelis and Palestinians and expressed his commitment to working for peace, security, and dignity for both peoples. He highlighted the efforts to ease the humanitarian crisis, bring peace to Gaza and Israel, and work towards a two-state solution.
This story has been updated with additional reporting.
