The US restricts additional visas for Israelis

The United States has recently taken a significant step by imposing visa restrictions on Israelis involved in violent acts against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank.

The move serves as a clear message to Israel, urging them to take responsibility and ensure that those responsible for such actions are held accountable.

"There has been a concerning rise in violence over the past months, and Israel must take stronger measures in holding individuals responsible," stated Matthew Miller, a spokesperson for the US State Department, during a press briefing.

Certain Israelis and their loved ones are now barred from entering the United States.

According to Miller, the Israeli government has made efforts to address settler violence in the West Bank by apprehending specific individuals involved.

"However, those steps have proven inadequate," he remarked.

One individual impacted by the recent restrictions implemented on Wednesday was Elor Azaria, a former Israel Defence Forces soldier.

Azaria had previously been convicted and received a nine-month prison sentence for the shooting and subsequent death of a wounded Palestinian in 2016.

The identities of the other individuals affected by the restrictions were not disclosed, as per the regulations set by US law.

There has been a surge in violence in the West Bank following Israel's military intervention in the Gaza Strip, which was prompted by a significant attack carried out by Hamas on October 7th.

In response to alleged violence against Palestinian civilians, the United States has recently imposed a series of financial sanctions on over 20 individuals and organizations.

These new restrictions have been put in place as a result.

Outpost settlements built without authorization by Israel, which has occupied the West Bank since 1967, are also being targeted by the sanctions.