EU sanctions seven Israeli settlers and organisations over West Bank violence

What happened

The New Arab reports that the European Union has imposed sanctions on seven Israeli settlers and organisations over violence against Palestinians and illegal settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank. The sanctions include travel bans, asset freezes, and prohibitions on EU citizens and companies from making funds or financial resources available to those listed.

Among the individuals sanctioned is Daniella Weiss, a prominent figure in the settler movement. The decision to impose these measures came after a delay due to a veto by Hungary’s former prime minister Viktor Orban, which was lifted following his ousting, allowing foreign ministers from the 27 EU member states to agree on the sanctions on 11 May.

The West Bank has experienced nearly daily violence involving Israeli troops and settlers for decades, with tensions sharply rising since Benjamin Netanyahu returned to office as Israeli Prime Minister in December 2022 and following the start of the Gaza war in October 2023. The sanctions also target ten representatives of the Palestinian group Hamas, according to the European Council.

Known from the source

• The EU sanctioned seven Israeli settlers and organisations over violence and illegal settlement expansion in the West Bank.
• Daniella Weiss, a key settler figure, is among those sanctioned.
• Sanctions include travel bans, asset freezes, and restrictions on economic engagements by EU citizens and companies.
• The sanctions were agreed by EU foreign ministers on 11 May after Viktor Orban’s ousting removed his veto.
• The European Council confirmed sanctions also on ten representatives of Hamas.

What remains unclear

The move comes amid increasing calls within the EU, particularly from Spain and Italy, to sanction Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who released a controversial video showing detained Gaza-bound activists with hands bound. This context highlights the EU’s broader efforts to address human rights concerns linked to the ongoing conflict and occupation.

What remains unclear: Verification of whether sanctions have officially been extended to Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir beyond pressure campaigns mentioned. Clarify if the incident video involving Ben Gvir has resulted in formal EU sanctions or government actions. Confirm details on how these sanctions will be implemented and enforced across EU member states. Ensure terminology accurately distinguishes confirmed facts from claims or broader political context.

Evidence note

Outside Brief has treated the source material as confirmed within the supplied source context, while retaining attribution to the original publisher.

Original source: The New Arab. Open the source.