Israel (Washington Insider Magazine) – Over 50 members of the Knesset demanded that he raise the issue of US sanctions against settlers during his speech in the US Congress, scheduled for Wednesday. In a letter sent on Sunday, the MKs emphasized the importance of addressing this issue
Call for Inclusion of Settlement Leaders
Leaders of the Land of Israel Caucus, Yuli Edelstein (Likud), Simcha Rothman (Religious Zionist Party), and Limor Son Har-Melech (Otzma Yehudit) led the letter, which also recommended that Netanyahu include in his delegation representatives from West Bank settlements. With this action, the government hopes to demonstrate its strong ties to the homeland and its support for the settlement movement.
Planned Meetings with Settlement Mayors
Reports on Sunday indicated that Netanyahu planned to meet with mayors from Judea and Samaria later that evening, likely in response to the letter. The MKs argued that the US sanctions harm Israeli sovereignty, the longstanding friendship between the two nations, democratic values, and the global fight against terrorism. They pointed out that no sanctions were imposed on Hamas or Palestinian Authority members involved in terrorism.
Concern Over Sanctions on Israeli Officials
According to Jpost, the MKs also expressed severe concern over reports that the US administration might sanction far-right ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich for their support of the settlement movement. The letter was signed by 55 Knesset members, nearly half of the 120-member Knesset, including members from all coalition parties and the United Right opposition party.
Smotrich’s Response to Potential Sanctions
In response to the report, Smotrich described the potential sanctions as a “miserable decision” driven by the internal political needs of the US, acting undemocratically against Israel. He stated his willingness to bear personal consequences but warned that sanctions against elected officials for their actions would critically damage Israeli sovereignty and bilateral relations, with far-reaching consequences.
US Frustration with Israeli Policies
The National Security Council discussed sanctioning Smotrich and Ben-Gvir last week at the White House. According to Israeli journalist Barak Ravid, the Biden administration holds them accountable for undermining security in Judea and Samaria and leading controversial government policies. The administration is frustrated with the expansion of Jewish settlements and the weakening of the Palestinian Authority, viewing these actions as inconsistent with international law.
Impact of Settlement Expansion Decisions
The recent Knesset decision to advance the planning and construction of an additional 5,000 housing units in settlements and to legalize five outposts prompted the White House meeting. The Biden administration views these actions as exacerbating tensions and undermining the peace process.
