The Biden administration imposes sanctions on Israeli group for attacking aid convoys bound for Gaza
The Biden administration has imposed sanctions on an Israeli group, Tsav 9, for attacking humanitarian aid convoys destined for Palestinian civilians in Gaza. This move is part of the ongoing efforts to penalize far-right Israelis accused of undermining peace and stability in the region.
Tsav 9 has been actively blocking convoys, harassing aid workers, and damaging aid trucks and goods meant for the people of Gaza. The group believes that aid ends up in the hands of Hamas, a view shared by many Israelis.
The State Department labeled Tsav 9 as a “violent extremist” group following an incident on May 13 where activists looted and set fire to two trucks carrying aid for Gaza in the West Bank.
In response, Tsav 9 released a statement defending itself as a legitimate protest group, arguing that much of the aid sent to Gaza supports the terrorist organization Hamas rather than the civilians in need.
The State Department has called on Israel to protect aid convoys from attacks and ensure their safe passage to Gaza. Sanctions on Tsav 9 come after previous penalties imposed on Israeli settlers and organizations involved in attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank.
Financial institutions under U.S. jurisdiction are required to freeze assets belonging to sanctioned groups and individuals, and American citizens are prohibited from aiding them.