Australia joins western allies in sanctioning West Bank settler violence
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade targets six firms and one individual for enabling attacks on Palestinian civilians, warning of further action if Israel fails to investigate or halt incitement.
Australia has joined the United Kingdom, Canada, France, and Norway in imposing sanctions on six firms and one individual for enabling and financing settler violence against Palestinian civilians in the West Bank. The measures were announced overnight by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to hold perpetrators accountable for attacks aimed at displacing Palestinians and destroying property.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong issued a joint statement condemning the "horrific levels" of violence and reiterating support for the two-state solution. The statement urges the Israeli government to investigate attacks, stop incitement, and take action against outposts facilitating violence. It also alleges that in some cases, settler violence occurs under the protection of Israel’s security forces.
The coordinated action is part of a broader strategy by the five nations, who have previously recognised the State of Palestine. The joint statement explicitly warns that the nations are "ready to take more action" if the Israeli government does not take urgent steps to address the situation on the ground.
France has separately imposed an entry ban on Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, highlighting growing international scrutiny of Israeli policies in the West Bank. The sanctions aim to hold perpetrators accountable for attacks aimed at displacing Palestinians, destroying property, and perpetuating the "illegal settlement enterprise."
The joint statement asserts that peace and security can only be achieved through the implementation of the two-state solution. While the specific identities of the sanctioned entities have not been detailed, the measures reflect a significant diplomatic shift by the five nations to address the escalating conflict.
The immediate impact of these sanctions on the behaviour of the targeted entities or the Israeli government is not yet known. However, the coordinated move underscores the increasing international pressure on Israel to address the conduct of extremist settlers and the role of state institutions in the region.
This development follows recent recognition of the State of Palestine by Australia, Canada, France, Norway, and the UK, reflecting a coordinated diplomatic effort to protect the viability of the two-state solution. The nations continue to work towards this goal, standing ready to escalate measures if necessary.
