The Department of State has announced sanctions on two Israeli individuals, including a violent settler and the CEO and director of U.S.-designated Hashomer Yosh. According to the Department, these individuals have contributed to an environment of violence and instability in the West Bank. Their actions are seen as undermining peace, security, and stability in the region.
Simultaneously, the Department of the Treasury has designated Hilltop Youth, a violent extremist group active in Palestinian communities in the West Bank. The group is accused of carrying out killings, mass arson, and "price tag" attacks aimed at intimidating Palestinian civilians. Hilltop Youth has also clashed with the Israeli military when efforts were made to counter its activities.
"We call on the Government of Israel to take action and hold violent actors, like those designated today, accountable," said Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson. "We will continue to use our tools to promote accountability for violence that threatens peace and stability in the region, no matter the national origin, ethnicity, race, or religion of the perpetrators of such violence."
The announcement underscores ongoing efforts by U.S. authorities to address violence that impacts regional stability.
