The Biden administration has imposed sanctions on the Israeli group Tzav 9 for obstructing humanitarian aid intended for civilians in Gaza, as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues. The group has been accused of blocking roads, damaging trucks, and dumping aid onto roads, preventing much-needed supplies from reaching those in need. The State Department also mentioned an incident where Tzav 9 members looted and set fire to two trucks delivering aid in the West Bank, though a Tzav 9 leader has denied responsibility for the act. These sanctions freeze any assets of the group under U.S. jurisdiction and prohibit U.S. citizens from dealing with Tzav 9.
A State Department spokesperson stated that the actions of Tzav 9 in blocking and damaging convoys carrying humanitarian assistance to Gaza are unacceptable. The move to sanction the group has been described as a “fatal blow” to families who are trying to stop aid from reaching Hamas, a group designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S. Tensions remain high between Israel and Hamas, with negotiations for a cease-fire ongoing and the United States urging Hamas to accept a three-phase deal to end the conflict. Hamas officials have requested amendments to the proposed deal, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken stating that some changes are acceptable while others are not.
More than 37,000 Palestinians have been reported killed in Israel’s war on Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The conflict has resulted in widespread destruction and suffering, with many people in Gaza facing “famine-like conditions” according to the World Health Organization. Israeli protestors have been blocking aid trucks from reaching Gaza for months, with reports of the most recent incident occurring just days before the sanctions were imposed on Tzav 9. The Israeli government has denied allegations of preventing aid, but President Joe Biden has criticized the government for not doing enough to increase aid efforts to Gaza.
In response to the escalating humanitarian crisis, Israel has pledged to ramp up aid efforts to Gaza. However, the United Nations has stated that it has yet to see a significant change on the ground. The U.S. has previously issued sanctions against individuals in the West Bank, including a visa ban in December and an executive order in February targeting those who are perceived to be undermining peace, security, and stability in the region. The conflict between Israel and Hamas has drawn international attention and condemnation, with calls for both sides to work towards a peaceful resolution to end the violence and suffering in Gaza.
