In a move applauded by many moderate Israelis, the UK government recently announced sanctions targeting seven groups that support extremist Israeli settlers in the West Bank. Among those hit was Amana, a development company behind some of the most violent settlements, led by Ze’ev Hever, a convicted Jewish Underground member. The sanctions aim to curtail settler violence that threatens hopes for Israeli-Palestinian peace.
Settlers Pose Serious Threat to Peace
The sanctioned entities enable illegal settlement building that destroys Palestinian property and displaces communities. Israeli governments have failed to rein in settlers who commit violent acts with impunity and even encouragement from some politicians. A source close to the matter emphasized the urgent need for international intervention:
These sanctions send a message that the world is losing patience with the settlement movement. They are critical to preventing violence in the short-term and drawing a line between legitimate Israel and illegally occupied territories.
Far-Right Politics Dominate Israel
Israel’s politics have been hijacked by pro-settlement extremists in recent years. The current far-right government includes figures like Itamar Ben-Gvir, convicted of incitement to racism, and Bezalel Smotrich, who called the terrorist group Hamas “an asset.” They prioritize expanding settlements over ending conflict.
Alarmingly, the drawn out Israel-Gaza war seems to serve their interests – providing cover to pursue their agendas as the nation is distracted. Hardliners peddle the illusion that military force alone can bring lasting security, while shirking responsibility for their shameful conduct.
UK Sanctions Can ‘Move The Dial’
Many Israelis believe UK sanctions can make a real difference by targeting not just settler groups, but also the politicians who enable them. Cutting off funding makes it harder to support extremist settler activity.
There are growing calls for sanctions against ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich themselves. Such action would bolster those working for a shared Israeli-Palestinian future and aiming to resolve the conflict through political dialogue rather than violence and subjugation.
The next round of sanctions must include Ben-Gvir and Smotrich, and should happen now.
– An Israeli source urging further UK action
Seeking Peace Amidst Tragedy
For Israelis who have suffered losses from Hamas attacks yet still seek peace, the UK’s stance offers hope. “My parents, both murdered [by Hamas], were victims of violence but also Israel’s overreliance on military might and reluctance to engage in a meaningful political process,” lamented one bereaved Israeli. “Military successes help sell an illusion that ‘total victory’ is possible through force alone.”
By distinguishing legitimate Israel from illegal occupation, the sanctions align with what should be the international community’s long-term strategy. Regrettably, this line wasn’t drawn decades ago – it could have prevented much bloodshed.
Israelis Demand Accountability
While the far-right clings to power, there is brewing discontent among Israelis outraged by the government’s catastrophic failures:
- Attempting to demolish the judicial system
- Failing to protect citizens during Hamas attacks
- Abandoning hostages
- Prolonging war while dodging responsibility
Prime Minister Netanyahu likely fears that once fighting ceases, he will face demands for an investigation into his government’s disgraceful conduct. Tens of thousands have demonstrated, demanding a hostage deal to end the war and calling for new elections.
By ratcheting up pressure through sanctions, the UK can hasten the day when cooler heads prevail in Israel, making way for leaders willing to turn from ruinous policies and earnestly seek peace. The path is arduous, but the cause is too crucial to abandon.
