Pro-Israel advocacy groups have taken action against the Biden administration for sanctions imposed on individuals involved in settler violence in the West Bank. The lawsuit, filed in Texas, involves NGOs Texans for Israel and Regavim, along with dual US-Israeli citizens residing in the West Bank.
Biden’s executive order in February enabled financial sanctions and visa restrictions against those attacking Palestinians or taking their property. The lawsuit argues the order violates free speech and religious rights, targeting Israelis who disagree with the policies.
Eugene Kontorovich, supporting the plaintiffs, highlights Texans for Israel’s charitable work in the West Bank. The executive order, deemed unconstitutional, wrongly penalizes Jewish residents in the West Bank.
As settler violence peaks, the situation in the West Bank worsens. UN data shows a surge in attacks, with over 600 Palestinians killed and thousands arrested. Settlement construction hits new highs, alongside reports of human rights abuses.
The Biden administration’s sanctions target individuals like settler Yinon Levi and extremist group Lehava. The ongoing conflict raises concerns about the viability of a two-state solution.