US Congress Debates Sanctions on Israeli Settlements Amid Tensions

US Congress members are increasingly proposing sanctions against Israeli settlements and related entities, fueled by escalating tensions between Washington and the Israeli government, according to a report by Yedioth Ahronoth. Sources familiar with US-Israeli relations indicate that the West Bank has become a "main point of tension," with the US reportedly angered by settler violence. A recent initiative, the "Stop the Settlements Act," introduced by six Democratic representatives, aims to penalize foreign entities involved in establishing or developing new settlements and infrastructure in the West Bank, including in the E1 area. Proposed sanctions could include asset freezes, visa restrictions, and financial penalties for those contributing to settlement expansion. The bill, as reported, could potentially target Israeli officials, including the prime minister. Approximately 40 Democratic members of Congress support settlement-related sanctions, though the bill's passage in the current Congress is unlikely due to the Republican majority. Proponents plan to push for it in the next session. Meanwhile, a Senate initiative by Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen, which sought a report on American citizens killed by settlers or Israeli forces and the detention of Palestinian children, narrowly failed by one vote. A senior Democratic source suggested that future congressional action on these initiatives could be influenced by Israeli election results and the formation of the next government. Experts and sources also noted the possibility of further US steps if current policies persist. Other discussed options include restricting the use of US weapons by specific Israeli military units or taking action against Israeli military and police officers involved in violence against Palestinians, though these measures have not yet been implemented. These developments occur amidst growing international criticism of Israeli settlements, with Britain and other countries recently imposing settlement-related sanctions, highlighting ongoing disagreements over Israeli policy in the West Bank.