Washington has announced sanctions against an Israeli group accused of obstructing humanitarian aid destined for civilians in Gaza, according to U.S. officials speaking to Reuters. The move, aimed at actors perceived as jeopardizing peace prospects between Israelis and Palestinians, targets Tsav 9. This group, linked to Israeli army reservists and settlers in the West Bank, faces sanctions for actions including impeding, harassing, and damaging aid shipments.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza, exacerbated by ongoing conflict, underscores the urgency of aid deliveries. Palestinian authorities report significant casualties amid Israel’s sustained military operations, although Israel denies accusations of hindering aid efforts.
Opposition within Israel’s government, particularly from right-wing elements associated with settler movements, has challenged U.S. President Joe Biden’s efforts to broker a ceasefire with Hamas. The recent sanctions fall under an executive order aimed at curbing violence in the West Bank, previously used to penalize entities involved in attacks against Palestinians.
Tsav 9’s sanctioning was confirmed on the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control website, following initial reporting by Reuters. State Department officials emphasized the broad application of sanctions targeting entities that threaten stability in the West Bank, irrespective of religious or ethnic affiliations.
Incidents attributed to Tsav 9, such as the destruction of aid trucks near Hebron in May, have drawn condemnation. The group, known by its Hebrew name “Order 9,” has justified its actions as measures to prevent aid from reaching Hamas, alleging Israeli complicity with the militant group.
The sanctions freeze Tsav 9’s assets under U.S. jurisdiction and prohibit transactions involving American entities. Democracy for the Arab World Now (DAWN), a U.S.-based rights group, has called for such measures, citing alleged impunity enjoyed by vigilante groups in Israel.
Accusations persist regarding Israeli military and police inaction during settler attacks on Palestinians, a concern echoed by Palestinian officials and human rights advocates. Israeli authorities have responded with arrests following the May incident, underscoring ongoing efforts to enforce accountability.
“We will utilize all available tools to hold perpetrators accountable,” stated Aaron Forsberg, director of the State Department’s sanctions policy office, urging reciprocal actions by Israeli authorities.
For further developments on this issue, stakeholders await responses from both Israeli and U.S. authorities amidst ongoing efforts to address humanitarian challenges in Gaza.
