Democratic Lawmakers Call for Sanctions Against Israeli Officials
In a significant move, approximately 90 Democratic lawmakers in the U.S. Congress have urged President Joe Biden to impose sanctions on Israeli officials Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir. The call comes in response to escalating violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, with lawmakers highlighting the alarming increase in settler violence and settlement expansion. The letter, released on November 14, expresses deep concern over the actions of the Israeli government, particularly under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership.
The letter, which was signed by 17 senators and 71 representatives, cites over 1,270 recorded attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank, averaging more than three violent incidents per day. Lawmakers emphasized the need for the U.S. to send a clear message regarding humanitarian issues, particularly as Biden's term approaches its end. Senators and representatives leading the effort, including Chris Van Hollen, Rosa DeLauro, and Sean Casten, assert that Biden has the authority to enact sanctions under an existing executive order.
Context of U.S.-Israel Relations and Settler Violence
The U.S. has historically supported a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians, urging Israel to refrain from expanding settlements in occupied territories. The West Bank, which Israel has occupied since the 1967 war, is a focal point of contention, with Palestinians seeking to establish their state there. Most international powers consider Israeli settlements illegal, a stance that Israel disputes based on historical claims.
The recent letter from lawmakers reflects growing frustration with the Netanyahu government's policies, particularly as Smotrich has expressed intentions to extend Israeli sovereignty over the West Bank by 2025. This move, coupled with the recent re-election of Donald Trump, who has been a staunch ally of Israel, raises concerns about the future of U.S. involvement in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. As tensions continue to rise, the call for sanctions underscores a pivotal moment in U.S.-Israel relations and the ongoing struggle for Palestinian rights.
