Israeli Prime Minister denounces US sanctions threat against IDF unit.
In response to reports of potential sanctions by the United States against the Netzah Yehuda battalion of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for alleged human rights violations in the West Bank, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vehemently criticized the move, describing it as absurd and morally reprehensible.
Netanyahu emphasized the crucial role of IDF soldiers in combatting terrorism and pledged to oppose any sanctions vigorously.
“The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) must not be sanctioned. Our soldiers are fighting terrorist monsters, and the intention to impose sanctions on an IDF unit is the height of absurdity and a moral nadir ( the lowest point),” Mr Netanyahu said in a statement on Saturday night.
“The government of Israel that I lead will act with all means against these moves,” he said.
Strong Opposition from Israeli Ministers:
Israeli ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich echoed Netanyahu’s sentiments, denouncing the proposed sanctions as unacceptable.
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Ben Gvir stressed the importance of protecting members of the Netzah Yehuda battalion and warned that imposing sanctions on IDF soldiers would be a serious escalation.
“Imposing sanctions on our soldiers is a red line,” Mr Gvir said, adding that the move was extremely serious and “The members of the Netzah Yehuda must be protected.”
Accusations of Coercive Diplomacy:
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich expressed concern that the potential sanctions could be part of a broader strategy to pressure Israel into accepting a Palestinian state and compromising its security.
Smotrich characterized the move as reckless and detrimental to Israel’s interests.
“The move to sanction IDF battalion, while Israel is fighting for its existence is complete madness. This is part of a planned move to force the State of Israel to agree to the establishment of a Palestinian state and to forsake Israel’s security,” he said.
Call for Resilience Against External Pressure:
The Israeli ministers collectively called upon Defense Minister Yoav Gallant not to yield to what they perceive as external pressure from the United States.
Their statements reflect a firm stance against any attempts to interfere with Israel’s military operations and security policies in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Netanyahu’s Firm Stand:
As Israeli Prime Minister denounces US sanctions threat against IDF unit, Prime Minister Netanyahu reiterated his government’s commitment to defending IDF soldiers and opposing any actions that undermine Israel’s national security interests.
The prospect of US sanctions against an elite IDF unit has sparked a strong reaction within the Israeli government, highlighting the deep-seated concerns over external attempts to influence Israeli defense operations.
