Washington, D.C. – Amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, President Joe Biden is set to issue an executive order targeting violent Israeli settlers in the West Bank, citing their actions as a threat to stability in the region.
The order is expected to penalize individuals directly involved in violent activities in the West Bank, including those who have incited riots, damaged property, and attacked people. This move comes in response to a surge in Israeli settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, which has intensified since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel.
President Biden has previously expressed his concern over the violence and has raised the issue with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The administration’s decision to take action aligns with Biden’s pledge to address the ongoing conflict and work towards a peaceful resolution.
In addition to targeting violent settlers, the Biden administration is reportedly considering a new policy aimed at expediting the establishment of a demilitarized and viable Palestinian state. This proposal involves the recognition of a Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, contingent on the development of credible institutions and security capabilities to ensure the state’s viability and prevent threats to Israel.
The order is expected to restrict Americans from providing financial support to the individuals targeted and impose sanctions on their property and financial transactions in the U.S. The administration has consulted with experts both inside and outside the government in shaping this recognition of Palestinian statehood.
The surge in settler violence has resulted in tensions in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with the recent attack on the West Bank hamlet of Huwara labeled as a “pogrom” by an Israeli military commander. The Biden administration’s actions aim to address the escalating violence and promote efforts towards a peaceful resolution.
As the conflict continues, the Biden administration’s response to the situation reflects its commitment to addressing the prolonged Israeli-Palestinian conflict and promoting stability in the region.