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

The Biden administration is reportedly set to impose sanctions on an elite battalion of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) due to alleged human rights violations against Palestinians in the West Bank. This has drawn strong opposition from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who called the move absurd and a moral low point, pledging to act against it.

Israeli ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich have also condemned the US plan to sanction the battalion, with Ben Gvir stating that imposing sanctions on Israeli soldiers is a red line and that the members of the Netzah Yehuda unit must be protected. Smotrich voiced his strong opposition on social media, accusing the US of acting in a manner that endangers Israel’s security and is part of a larger plan to establish a Palestinian state.

The Israeli ministers have called on Defense Minister Yoav Gallant not to yield to the US pressure, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. The looming sanctions and the corresponding reactions have sparked a heated debate within the Israeli government and society, highlighting the ongoing tensions and complex dynamics in the region.