International Sanctions Loom Over Israeli Settlers
The West Bank has become a focal point of international scrutiny as Western allies consider imposing new sanctions on Israeli settler leaders. According to Haaretz, these measures are driven by the policies of Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, which are perceived as an attempt to annex the West Bank. The potential sanctions aim to extend beyond those previously placed on right-wing extremists involved in violence against Palestinians, encompassing a broader range of individuals and organizations linked to settlement outposts.
Britain's Stance and Broader International Reactions
The new Labor government in Britain is expected to tighten sanctions on settler leaders, particularly after British Foreign Secretary David Lammy's recent visit to Israel. During his visit, Lammy expressed concerns about Smotrich's policies and the escalating sanctions on settler leaders in his meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In recent months, the United States, Canada, and the European Union have also imposed sanctions on settlers involved in violence. Despite these measures, Smotrich continues to push for the annexation of the West Bank, a plan revealed by the New York Times last month.
The European Union is also considering imposing sanctions on the Regavim organization, which supports settlement expansion in the West Bank. A document obtained by Israel Hayom indicates that the EU views Regavim as an entity that undermines Palestinian property rights and self-determination. The organization's CEO, Meir Deutsch, is mentioned as being responsible for actions against Palestinian property. The EU's stance underscores a broader effort to challenge organizations that it perceives as violating international norms and laws.
