In a move aimed at curbing extremist settler violence in the West Bank, the Canadian government has imposed its fourth round of sanctions on two high-ranking officials of the State of Israel. The measures, which took effect today, prohibit Canadians and individuals outside Canada from dealing with these individuals or their assets.
The decision was announced by Global Affairs Canada, following an assessment that Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Yoel Smotrich have engaged in activities that undermine peace and security in the region. The Canadian government has designated these two officials under the Special Economic Measures (Extremist Settler Violence) Regulations, which also render them ineligible for entry into Canada.
The Background of Designated Individuals
Itamar Ben-Gvir is a prominent figure in Israel’s far-right extremist movement, known for his advocacy of violence against Palestinian civilians and support for settler expansion. Bezalel Yoel Smotrich, another newly designated individual, has also been linked to extremist activities and has faced criticism from human rights groups.
The Canadian government’s decision to impose sanctions on these individuals is seen as a significant step towards promoting peace and stability in the region. “Canada is committed to addressing the root causes of violence and promoting a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict,” said an official spokesperson for Global Affairs Canada.
Consequences for Designated Individuals
Under the Special Economic Measures (Extremist Settler Violence) Regulations, individuals designated by the Canadian government are prohibited from dealing with Canadians or individuals outside Canada. This includes transactions, provision of services, transfer of property, and other activities that may facilitate their extremist activities.
The designations also render these individuals ineligible for entry into Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. The regulations provide a mechanism for these individuals to apply to have their names removed from the Schedule of designated persons, but this requires a determination by the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Reaction from Human Rights Groups
Human rights organizations have welcomed the Canadian government’s decision to impose sanctions on extremist figures in Israel. “Canada’s actions demonstrate its commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region,” said a spokesperson for Amnesty International Canada.
However, some critics have expressed concerns that the measures may not go far enough in addressing the root causes of violence in the West Bank. “Sanctions alone are unlikely to bring about lasting change,” said a spokesperson for the Canadian Palestine Society.
Conclusion
The imposition of sanctions on Israeli extremist figures by Canada marks an important step towards promoting peace and stability in the region. While there is still much work to be done, this move demonstrates Canada’s commitment to addressing the root causes of violence and promoting a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.