Official announcements from the U.S. Department of State or White House press releases

Over 90 Lawmakers Urge Biden to Sanction Israeli Officials Amid Settler Violence; Administration Targets Amana Organization

Nov 18, 2024, 07:05 PM

A coalition of over 80 Democratic lawmakers has urged President Joe Biden to impose sanctions on members of the Israeli government due to rising settler violence and anti-Palestinian actions. This call comes as the Biden administration has already initiated sanctions against extremist Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank, actions that may be reversed by a future Trump administration. The lawmakers' letter, which was signed by nearly 90 members, highlights concerns over the Israeli government's policies and their impact on Palestinian communities. Additionally, Biden's recent sanctions target the Amana organization, identified as a significant entity in the settlement movement. Critics, including Senator Bernie Sanders, have voiced opposition to continued U.S. military support for Israel amid these tensions, arguing it is morally wrong to provide weapons used against civilians. The situation remains contentious, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggesting that Biden's guidance has been misguided throughout the ongoing conflict.