Antony J. Blinken 71st U.S. Secretary of State | Official Website
The Department of State announced further actions today aimed at promoting accountability for gross violations of human rights and activities that undermine peace, security, or stability in the West Bank.
Elor Azaria, a former Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) sergeant, has been designated under Section 7031(c) for his involvement in an extrajudicial killing in the West Bank. As a result, Azaria and his immediate family members are generally ineligible for entry into the United States. Additionally, visa restrictions will be imposed on other individuals who have contributed to undermining peace, security, or stability in the region. These restrictions target those who have used violence against persons or property or restricted civilians' access to essential services and basic necessities such as food, water, electricity, or medical supplies. The immediate family members of these individuals may also face similar restrictions.
"Promoting accountability and justice for any crimes, violations, and abuses committed against Palestinians and Israelis is essential to a stable, just, and enduring calm in the West Bank and the region," stated a spokesperson from the Department of State. "We once again call on the government of Israel and the Palestinian Authority to hold accountable anyone responsible for violence in the West Bank and reiterate that we will not hesitate to take our own actions to promote accountability."
This public designation falls under Section 7031(c) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024 (Div. F., P.L. 118-47). Azaria qualifies as a foreign government official under this section. The visa restrictions on additional individuals are being implemented under a policy announced by Secretary Blinken in December 2023 pursuant to Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
