LONDON, Friday, May 3, 2024 (WAFA) – The British government has declared new sanctions against extremist colonist groups and individuals for inciting and carrying out violence in the West Bank.
In a statement released today, the government revealed that the fresh sanctions were prompted by a significant surge in colonist violence over the past year, building upon a previous UK sanctions package implemented in February. These measures entail financial restrictions on entities and individuals, as well as travel restrictions on individuals involved.
The decision to impose sanctions follows a disturbing rise in illegal colonist violence in the West Bank, with nearly 800 incidents recorded by the UN since October alone.
Foreign Secretary David Cameron emphasized the necessity of these sanctions, stating that they target two groups known for their support, incitement, and promotion of violence against Palestinian communities in the West Bank, along with four individuals accountable for perpetrating human rights violations against these communities.
"Extremist settlers are jeopardizing security and stability and undermining prospects for peace. It is imperative for Israeli authorities to crack down on those responsible. The UK stands ready to take further action, including additional sanctions, if necessary," Cameron declared.
The British government has provided details about the four individuals sanctioned for their involvement in "egregious human rights abuses" against Palestinian communities:
Noam Federman: A radical settler activist and former leader of the now-disbanded Kach party, notorious for its overtly racist and violent ideologies. Federman has been implicated in training settler groups to carry out violent acts against Palestinians and evade accountability from Israeli authorities.
Neria Ben Pazi: An Israeli individual responsible for the illegal construction of three outposts between 2015 and 2023, and involved in supporting and participating in violent actions leading to the displacement of Bedouin and Palestinian communities in the West Bank.
Eden Levi: An activist known for his participation in assaults and intimidation tactics targeting Palestinians, as part of a broader campaign aimed at coercing their population out of the area. Levi's involvement in violent incidents, including assaults and sexual assaults on Palestinian villagers, has been documented.
Elisha Yered: An unofficial spokesperson for the Hilltop Youth extremist group, Yered has a history of making inflammatory statements inciting religious hatred and violence. He has openly advocated for the killing of Palestinians on religious grounds and the seizure of Palestinian land, as well as the expulsion of Palestinians from the West Bank.
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