 "UK, Canada and western allies sanction far-right Israeli ministers for ‘inciting extremist violence’")
The United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Norway have imposed sanctions on two Israeli ministers, accusing them of repeatedly inciting violence against Palestinians.
The sanctions target National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, both leaders of far-right parties that support Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s fragile coalition.
This move comes amid growing criticism from Israel’s Western allies over its settlement policies in the West Bank and the surge in settler violence. The violence has intensified since Hamas’ 7 October 2023 attack, which triggered the ongoing war in Gaza.
Support for continued war, Gaza resettlement
Ben-Gvir and Smotrich, key figures in Netanyahu’s government, strongly support the continuation of the war in Gaza. They have publicly backed what they call the “voluntary” emigration of Palestinians from Gaza and the re-establishment of Jewish settlements in the territory.
Sanctions include asset freezes and travel bans
The sanctions could lead to asset freezes and travel bans against both ministers.
In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of the five countries said Ben-Gvir and Smotrich “have incited extremist violence and serious abuses of Palestinian human rights. Extremist rhetoric advocating the forced displacement of Palestinians and the creation of new Israeli settlements is appalling and dangerous.”
Rubio condemns allies for sanctions
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the sanctions imposed Tuesday by Britain and other nations against two Israeli cabinet members accused of repeatedly inciting violence against Palestinians.
“These sanctions do not advance US-led efforts to achieve a ceasefire, bring all hostages home, and end the war” in Gaza, Rubio said in a statement.
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