The EU Council has imposed new sanctions against Israeli settlers
The Council of the European Union has adopted additional restrictive measures against four organizations and three individuals in response to the expansion of settlements in the West Bank and actions against the Palestinian population. The decision targets entities that contribute to destabilization and the violation of Palestinians’ rights in the region.
This is stated in a corresponding statement by the EU Council.
The settler movement “Nahal” and its leader, Daniela Weiss, have been added to the sanctions list. The EU stated that this organization’s activities contribute to the establishment of outposts and the forced displacement of Palestinians, as well as restricting access to agricultural land and causing violence.
Sanctions have also been imposed against the Israeli non-governmental organization “Regavim” and its director, Meir Deutsch. According to the EU, this organization engages in legal and political lobbying for the demolition of Palestinian property and the expansion of Israeli control in the West Bank; in particular, it has initiated proceedings for the demolition of structures built with EU support.
The non-governmental organization “Hashomer Yosh” and its president, Avihai Suissa, have also been targeted by the restrictions. They have been added to the list because the organization provides material support and coordinates the activities of volunteers in areas associated with outposts, as well as facilitates the recruitment of armed guards.
Separately, the cooperative association “Amana” has been added to the sanctions list. According to the EU, it plays a key role in establishing and financing dozens of settlements and outposts in the West Bank.
The European Commission has proposed a series of measures to punish Israel for its actions in the Gaza Strip and the deterioration of the humanitarian situation. The Commission is proposing that the EU Council suspend certain trade provisions of the Association Agreement between the EU and Israel.
The European Commission announced the suspension of financial aid to Israel and the freezing of all payments to it.
