The Australian government has imposed sanctions on three Israeli individuals and four entities in response to escalating settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong, stated that this violence undermines Israel’s security and global standing. The sanctioned individuals and entities will face financial restrictions, preventing Australians from providing them with money or assets, and the individuals will be barred from entering Australia.
Wong highlighted that the designated entities now include farming outposts that act as centers for settler violence. She emphasized that settler violence aims to displace Palestinians and sustain the settlement enterprise through various harmful actions. Australia collaborated with partners, including New Zealand, to implement these sanctions, demonstrating its dedication to the security and future of Israel and Palestine.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, along with leaders from several countries, called for an end to escalating Israeli settlement activities in the West Bank. The leaders expressed concern over the significant deterioration in the West Bank, with settler violence reaching unprecedented levels. They reiterated that Israeli settlements in the region are illegal under international law and warned against construction in the E1 area, which could divide the West Bank and violate international law.
The joint statement by the leaders urged businesses to refrain from bidding on construction projects in E1 or other settlement developments due to legal and reputational risks. They reaffirmed their support for a negotiated two-state solution, envisioning Israel and Palestine coexisting peacefully and securely side by side.
