Israel Criticizes US Action, Calling Sanctions on Soldiers a “Red Line

The sanctions being discussed are in response to what is reported to be alleged human rights violations committed against Palestinians in the West Bank by soldiers from a particular battalion. The Biden administration is believed to be considering blacklisting this elite battalion within the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

In response to these potential sanctions, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the IDF should not be sanctioned, as its soldiers are fighting against terrorist threats. He described the intention to impose sanctions on an IDF unit as absurd and morally reprehensible.

Netanyahu also expressed his government’s determination to oppose these measures using all available means. Israeli ministers, Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, also criticized the US move.

Ben Gvir stressed that imposing sanctions on Israeli soldiers is a red line and urged the protection of the soldiers in question. He additionally called on Defense Minister Yoav Gallant not to yield to the pressure from the United States.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich strongly opposed the US plans to impose sanctions on Netzah Yehuda, an IDF battalion, characterizing the move as complete madness. He suggested that the sanctions may be part of a broader plan to compel Israel to agree to the establishment of a Palestinian state and compromise its security.