WASHINGTON DC, Thursday, July 11, 2024 (WAFA) – The Biden administration has announced its fifth round of sanctions targeting Israeli extremists and illegal outposts in the West Bank.  

The sanctions, detailed by the Treasury Department and State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, target three individuals and five entities. Among them are prominent figures such as Benzi Gopstein, leader of the Lehava group. Gopstein, already designated as an extremist, has been a focal point due to his group's provocative activities.

Additionally, the sanctions take aim at entities linked to previously sanctioned groups, including Tzav 9 co-heads Reut Ben Haim and Aviad Shlomo Sarid. Their far-right group has been implicated in attacks on humanitarian convoys bound for Gaza and actions in the West Bank.

The sanctions also extend to four West Bank outposts accused of being bases for violent activities against Palestinians. These include Meitarim Farm, HaMahoch Farm, Neria’s Farm, and Manne’s Farm, owned or controlled by individuals already under sanction for their extremist activities.

This latest batch of sanctions represents the largest single action taken by the US in response to settler violence, which has been a longstanding concern. The Biden administration has been vocal in urging Israel to address these issues, particularly through enforcement against extremist elements.

M.N