 "Did Tsav-9, group sanctioned by US, have quiet backing from Israel for its illegal blocking of aid to Gaza?")
The United States has recently sanctioned the Tsav-9 group, an extremist Israeli organisation, for obstructing the delivery of life-saving humanitarian aid to Gaza.
We explain what Tsav-9 is, how their illegal operations have deeply harmed humanitarian efforts in Palestine, the kind of support they allegedly enjoy in Israel, and the significance of the US sanctions.
Who is Tsav-9?
Tsav-9, whose name translates to “Order 9” in Hebrew, traces its origins to a Facebook group, according to Newsweek. The name is a nod to Tsav-8, the call-up orders for Israeli military reservists, reflecting the group’s roots among Israeli army reservists and settlers. Tsav-9 emerged out of frustration among some Israeli citizens over the Israeli government’s aid shipments to Gaza, particularly amidst the ongoing conflict with Hamas.
The group holds a hardline stance against providing humanitarian aid to Gaza, arguing that such aid supports Hamas, the militant organisation governing Gaza. Tsav-9 claims that a significant portion of the aid intended for civilians is diverted to Hamas, which they believe disincentivises the group from negotiating hostage releases. This perspective aligns with their broader right-wing extremist ideology, which prioritises security concerns over humanitarian needs.
Why has Tsav-9 been sanctioned?
Tsav-9 has been sanctioned primarily for their violent efforts to block humanitarian aid to Gaza. Their modus operandi includes blockading key crossings, vandalising and burning aid trucks, and attacking drivers. Recently, Tsav-9 made headlines on May 13, when its members looted and set fire to two aid trucks near Hebron.
Matthew Miller, a spokesperson for the US State Department, highlighted the group’s disruptive actions: “For months, individuals from Tsav-9 have repeatedly sought to thwart the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, including by blockading roads, sometimes violently. They also have damaged aid trucks and dumped life-saving humanitarian aid on the road.”
Impact Shorts
More Shortsפעילי תנועת צו 9 חוסמים את משאיות הסיוע ההומניטרי במחסום תרקומיא לקול צפירת יום הזיכרון לחללי מערכות ישראל pic.twitter.com/WNDDprnDEl
— אריאל עידן (@Arielidan20) May 13, 2024
These actions have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where access to food, medical supplies, and other essential goods is critical. Tsav-9’s activities have not only impeded aid deliveries but have also resulted in injuries to truck drivers and Israeli Defense Forces soldiers.
Support from Israel
Tsav-9 enjoys a degree of support within certain segments of Israeli society, particularly among far-right groups and activists. Some Israeli families who have lost loved ones or have had members abducted by Hamas endorse Tsav-9’s stance. This support, however, contrasts sharply with the condemnation from other Israelis who view the group’s actions as exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Despite the violent nature of their activities, Israeli military and police forces have often been criticised for not intervening to stop Tsav-9. There have been several reports and videos of Israeli security forces standing by as Tsav-9 activists attacked aid trucks. Moreover, although Israel arrested four individuals involved in the May 13 attack, including a minor, there have been no indictments filed against them.
Impact and significance of American sanctions
The American sanctions against Tsav-9 are significant as they mark an intensification of international efforts to curb settler and extremist violence in the West Bank. These sanctions are part of a broader executive order by President Joe Biden, which aims to penalise actions threatening the peace, security, or stability of the West Bank.
The sanctions freeze any assets Tsav-9 holds under US jurisdiction and prohibit Americans from engaging in transactions with the group. This move will not only isolate Tsav-9 financially but also send a strong message against the obstruction of humanitarian efforts.
The broader significance of these sanctions lies in their potential to deter similar extremist activities by signalling that the international community will not tolerate actions that exacerbate humanitarian crises. They also highlight the need for accountability within Israel, urging the Israeli government and security forces to take stronger measures against groups like Tsav-9.
In a nutshell
The sanctions on Tsav-9 underscore the US’s commitment to supporting humanitarian aid efforts and addressing extremist violence. By targeting Tsav-9, the US aims to alleviate the humanitarian suffering in Gaza and promote stability in the region. The move also serves as a call to action for the Israeli government to address the activities of such extremist groups within its borders.
With inputs from agencies
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