The United States has introduced new sanctions targeting several individuals and organizations allegedly involved in violence against civilians in the West Bank amidst ongoing conflicts between Israel and Hamas. The US State Department named Eyal Hari Yehuda Company LTD (Eyal LTD), its owner Itamar Yehuda Levi, Shabtai Koshlevsky, and Zohar Sabah as subjects of these punitive measures.
Eyal LTD was reportedly implicated in providing vehicles used to facilitate the expansion of physical boundaries, resulting in the dispossession of Palestinian communities. This action links back to Levi, the owner, while Koshlevsky is noted as the vice president of Hashomer Yosh, a non-profit organization designated by the US. Meanwhile, Sabah is accused of employing violent tactics against Palestinians that disrupt their daily lives.
Additionally, the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has imposed sanctions on Amana the Settlement Movement of Gush Emunim Central Cooperative Association Ltd and its subsidiary, Binyanei Bar Amana Ltd. These entities are central within the extremist settlement movement and are linked to violence in the West Bank, particularly in the construction and sale of homes on contested grounds.
The sanctions are predicated upon Executive Order 14115, which enables blocking individuals and entities that jeopardize peace, security, and stability in the region. The Order outlines that any entity providing material support to sanctioned persons, directly or indirectly complicity in acts of violence, property destruction, or the instigation of fear leading to civilian displacement are subject to these measures. Consequently, affected individuals and entities within the US have had their property rights frozen, disallowing any financial transactions or transfers.
Earlier in the year, Human Rights Watch urged the Biden administration for compliance with US law, advocating for a suspension of arms transfers to Israel, amplifying the discourse on US involvement and aid in this complex geopolitical milieu.
The situation presents a continued challenge for US foreign policy, balancing strategic alliances with adherence to human rights standards. For further information, the original article can be accessed on JURIST.