Australia Cracks Down on West Bank Settler Violence with New Sanctions
Australia has taken a significant step in addressing the escalating violence in the West Bank by imposing sanctions on Israeli settler farming outposts and individuals for the first time. These new diplomatic penalties, which came into effect on Tuesday, target four settler farming outposts and three individuals, adding to a growing list of measures against far-right Israeli figures.
The Australian government has previously sanctioned prominent Israeli figures, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who was notably seen in a video in May berating pro-Palestine activists. The latest action underscores Australia’s commitment to upholding international law and advocating for the safety and security of both Israelis and Palestinians.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong has made it unequivocally clear that Israel is obligated to adhere to international law and must take immediate and decisive action to put an end to settler violence.
“Settler violence is used to displace Palestinians and perpetuate the settlement enterprise, through destruction of property, displacement of families, beatings, sexual assault, and torture, resulting in serious injuries and deaths,” Minister Wong stated on Tuesday. She further elaborated on the detrimental impact of these actions, highlighting that “The individuals and entities sanctioned today have undermined Israel’s own security and its standing in the world and harmed the interests of the Israeli people.”
Minister Wong emphasised the broader implications of these sanctions, stating, “Australia’s imposition of sanctions against them reflects our commitment to Israel and Palestine’s security and future.”
The four settler farming outposts specifically named in the sanctions are:
- Moshe’s Farm
- Meitarim Farm
- Neria’s Farm
- Zvi’s Farm
These outposts have reportedly served as bases for extremist Israelis who have allegedly carried out attacks against Palestinians.
The sanctions also extend to:
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Ben Zion Gopstein: The founder of the far-right extremist organisation Lehava. The Australian government asserts that Lehava promotes a Jewish supremacist ideology. It is worth noting that Lehava itself has been under Australian sanctions since 2001.
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Eden Levi and Moshe Sharvit: Both identified as extremist settlers. Australia has stated that these individuals have been involved in attacks and intimidation tactics targeting Palestinians.
The implications of these new sanctions are far-reaching. The individuals now subject to these restrictions will be prohibited from entering Australia. Furthermore, it is now illegal for any Australian citizen or entity to provide them with financial support or transfer assets to them.
Senator Wong also revealed that Australia has been working in concert with international partners, including New Zealand, in the implementation of these measures. This collaborative approach signals a united front among like-minded nations in addressing the complex and sensitive issue of settler violence in the West Bank. The move by Australia is expected to put further pressure on those involved in perpetuating such violence and to encourage a more peaceful resolution in the region.
