In a significant move, President Joe Biden is set to issue an executive order on Thursday, targeting Israeli settlers involved in attacks against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. This decision, aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict, involves imposing sanctions on individuals responsible for violence leading to the killing or displacement of Palestinians from their lands.
Pressure on Biden and Diplomatic Initiatives
Amid increasing pressure, especially from Democrats, for a tougher stance on Israel, President Biden’s administration seeks to counter criticisms of its perceived disproportionate reaction to the Hamas attack on October 7. The diplomatic challenge intensifies as Biden is scheduled to visit Michigan, a battleground state with a significant Arab American population upset with the administration’s handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Briefing and Far-Right Settler Attacks
Senior White House officials recently briefed Ron Dermer, a confidant of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on the upcoming executive order. The move comes in response to the longstanding issue of far-right Israeli settlers conducting attacks on Palestinians in the West Bank, escalating after the October 7 Hamas attack, resulting in the evacuation of entire Palestinian villages.
International Pressure and Diplomatic Channels
In November, Biden instructed top U.S. officials to explore options for penalizing violent Israeli settlers. The upcoming executive order broadens the scope of potential targets, including those directly or indirectly engaging in actions threatening West Bank security, intimidating civilians, and obstructing efforts towards a two-state solution. This aligns with recent U.S. visa restrictions announced by Secretary of State Antony Blinken in December.
Sanctions Details and Biden Administration’s Shift
The State and Treasury Departments are expected to release detailed sanctions information, likely including freezes on financial assets held by settlers in the U.S. As the Biden administration bolsters support for Palestinians, particularly in Gaza, its approach has evolved, considering Palestinian concerns amidst challenges posed by Netanyahu’s government.
Conclusion
This executive order signifies a strategic shift in U.S. policy, addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The impending sanctions aim to deter violence and promote a more balanced approach to the longstanding tensions in the region.
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