By Malak Khaled
Upon his return to the White House, U.S. President Donald Trump has canceled sanctions imposed by the Biden administration on far-right Israeli settler groups and individuals accused of violence against Palestinians in the West Bank.
The move overturns an Executive Order, issued in February 2024, which penalized those undermining peace and stability in the region.
Why Were the Sanctions Imposed?
The Biden administration had implemented the sanctions to address the growing violence by Israeli settlers and the continued land seizures in the occupied West Bank.
These measures froze U.S.-based assets of targeted individuals and entities while restricting Americans from engaging with them. The goal was to pressure Israel to hold extremist groups accountable for actions that hindered progress toward a two-state solution.
Reports of Violence in the West Bank Amid Ceasefire
The announcement of Trump’s decision coincides with ongoing violence in the West Bank. Settlers, under the protection of Israeli soldiers, set fire to vehicles and properties east of Qalqilya. In addition, they also stormed Al-Aqsa Mosque and prevented worshipers from entering.
Reports indicate that at least 21 Palestinians were injured during these incidents on Monday and Tuesday. The timing of these events highlights the challenges of maintaining stability in the region.
Trump’s Role in the Ceasefire and Policy Shift on Israel Settlements
Trump took credit for the three-phase ceasefire agreement brokered by Qatar, Egypt and the United States. When asked about the likelihood of the truce holding, Trump remarked, “It’s their war. But I’m not confident.”
Trump’s broader approach to Middle East policy, particularly regarding Israeli settlements, highlights a significant departure from Biden’s policies. During his first term in 2019, Trump abandoned the U.S. position that settlements were illegal. Joe Biden later reversed this position.
Changes in U.S. Weapons Supply to Israel
In addition to the reversal of sanctions, Trump is also expected to lift the Biden administration’s freeze on the supply of 2,000-pound bombs to Israel as reported by the Israeli Ambassador to Washington.
This freeze had been introduced due to concerns over the Israeli military’s targeting of densely populated areas in Gaza. This policy change indicates a continuation of Trump’s strong military support for Israel.
Trump’s recent policy reversals reflect a return to his administration’s strong alignment with Israel. While the move reinforces U.S.-Israel relations, it raises concerns about escalating violence and the broader implications for peace in the region.
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