Canada Imposes Historic Sanctions on Extremist Israeli Settlers

Ottawa, May 19, 2024 — In a landmark decision, Canada has imposed its first-ever sanctions on extremist Israeli settlers in the West Bank. The move, announced by the foreign ministry, targets individuals accused of violence against Palestinians, marking a significant step in Ottawa’s efforts to address growing tensions in the region.

Canada’s sanctions target four individuals allegedly involved in direct or indirect acts of violence against Palestinians and their property. The measures prohibit any dealings with these individuals and render them inadmissible to Canada.

“The rise in violence by extremist Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank is deeply troubling and poses significant risks to peace and security in the region,” said Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly. “With these measures, we are sending a clear message that acts of extremist settler violence are unacceptable and that perpetrators of such violence will face consequences.”

Canada’s actions are in line with similar measures taken by allies such as the United States, Britain, the European Union, and New Zealand. These nations have also sanctioned violent settlers and urged Israel to take stronger actions to curb the violence.

Violence in the Israeli-occupied West Bank reached a 15-year high in 2023 and escalated further following the conflict in Gaza sparked by Hamas’ October 7 attack. The Canadian government has designated Hamas as a terrorist organization and recently imposed sanctions on individuals linked to providing military support to the group.

In addition to the sanctions, Canada pledged $65 million for humanitarian aid in Gaza. This includes a previously announced $25 million for the U.N. Palestinian relief agency UNRWA and an additional $40 million to UNRWA and other aid groups operating in the region.

The West Bank, captured by Israel during the 1967 Middle East war, has been under military occupation since. Israeli settlements in the area have expanded consistently, a policy promoted by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s religious-nationalist government, causing friction with international allies, particularly the United States.

Most world powers consider the settlements illegal under international law, a stance Israel disputes by citing historical claims and security needs. Palestinians view the West Bank as a crucial part of a future independent state, which would also include Gaza and East Jerusalem.

Earlier this year, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated Washington’s position that West Bank settlements are inconsistent with international law, reversing a stance taken by the previous U.S. administration.

Canada’s historic sanctions and continued humanitarian efforts underscore its commitment to addressing the complex and volatile situation in the West Bank, striving for a peaceful resolution and upholding international law.