EU imposes sanctions on groups and individuals over settler violence in West Bank

BRUSSELS /PNN/ The European Union announced new restrictive measures targeting entities and individuals accused of supporting extremist settler activity in the occupied West Bank, citing serious and systematic human rights abuses against Palestinians.The sanctions were adopted under the EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime in response to escalating violence, forced displacement and dispossession affecting Palestinians.In a statement issued Tuesday, the EU said it remains committed to a future in which Israelis and Palestinians live side by side in peace, security and dignity within internationally recognized borders, stressing that a two-state solution remains the only viable path to a just and lasting peace.However, the bloc warned that continued settlement expansion, the establishment of violent outposts and intimidation against Palestinian communities are increasingly undermining the viability of a future Palestinian state.The measures target individuals and organizations that facilitate, finance or support activities linked to settler violence and serious rights violations against Palestinians, including infringements on property rights, education, freedom of religion or belief, private and family life, and physical and mental integrity.Among those sanctioned is the Nachala Settlement Movement and its director Daniella Weiss. According to the EU, the movement promotes and facilitates coercive practices that contribute to the forced displacement of Palestinians. The statement said several outposts linked to the movement were built on privately owned Palestinian land and have become recurring sources of violence.The measures also target the Israeli NGO Regavim and its director Meir Deutsch for advocating the demolition of Palestinian property and expanding Israeli control across the West Bank through legal action. The EU noted that the organization campaigned for the demolition of an EU-funded Palestinian primary school in the village of Jabbet al-Dhib near Bethlehem.In addition, sanctions were imposed on Hashomer Yosh and its president Avichai Suissa, with the EU accusing the organization of supporting violent outposts and recruiting armed volunteers involved in attacks against Palestinians.The Amana cooperative association, linked to the settler movement Gush Emunim, was also sanctioned for initiating, financing and facilitating dozens of outposts and settlements in the occupied West Bank.Under the measures, those listed will face asset freezes, bans on receiving funds or economic resources from EU individuals or entities, and travel bans preventing entry into EU member states.