Australia Enacts Sanctions on Settler Groups in West Bank Amid Rising Violence

Australia joins sanctions against ‘extremist settlers’

Australia has joined the UK and other western allies in introducing sanctions against “extremist settlers” responsible for “horrific levels of settler violence against Palestinian civilians”. The sanctions target six firms and one individual facilitating recent violence in the West Bank.

In response to escalating violence, Foreign Ministers from Australia, Canada, France, Norway, and the UK announced coordinated sanctions to hold extremist settlers accountable. Violent settlers, often protected by Israeli authorities, displace Palestinians and destroy property, threatening peace efforts.

The sanctions emphasize the need for Israel to investigate attacks, dismantle violent outposts, and cease incitement of violence. The signatories reiterate their commitment to the two-state solution and recognize Palestine’s right to exist.

Separately, high court proceedings will determine if the Australian government must compensate Safwat Abdel-Hady for 18 months of indefinite detention. The court will rule on whether his case establishes a precedent for damages claims by others detained unlawfully.

Welcome

Good morning. I’m Martin Farrer with key stories. Nick Visser will report on further developments.

Australia’s sanctions targeting settler violence were coordinated with Canada, France, Norway, and the UK. The measures aim to address systemic impunity in the West Bank while maintaining pressure for Israel to act.

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