J Street Welcomes the Nadler, Smith, Himes Settler Violence Sanctions Bill

Washington, DC – In response to Representatives Jerry Nadler, Adam Smith and Jim Himes’ introduction of legislation that would codify President Biden’s groundbreaking West Bank sanctions framework, designed to cut off support for groups and individuals promoting violence in the West Bank, J Street Director of Government Affairs Hannah Morris released the following statement:

“It’s incredibly significant to have such senior members of Congress, including respected Jewish and national security leaders, show unity on legislation like this. There’s clear recognition that settler extremism in the West Bank is a threat to both the Palestinian people and, as Israel’s own intelligence leaders have said, a threat to Israelis and Israel’s security as well.

Violent settlers and the groups that support them are pursuing a mission that is antithetical to the values of democracy, justice and peace enshrined in Israel’s Declaration of Independence and shared by the majority of Jewish and pro-Israel Americans. They’re also engaged in a flagrant violation of international law, and it’s well past time for Congress to stand up and push back.

These sanctions were a landmark policy under the Biden Administration and have been adopted by many of our pro-Israel allies. They cut off extremists from funds and made a real impact on the ground. With Trump reversing them and Netanyahu’s ministers all but declaring open-season for settler violence in the West Bank, demonstrating support for these measures is more urgent than ever. Importantly, these sanctions apply to any group or individual sowing violence and chaos in the West Bank, Israeli and Palestinian alike.

If we truly want to deter violence, stop the situation from spiraling further and give force to our words about human rights and equal protection, we have to pursue accountability. Leaders like Smotrich and Ben-Gvir may champion lawless impunity for settlers – even on our own doorsteps – but the United States must stand up for accountability and justice. We urge all pro-Israel, pro-peace, pro-democracy Members of Congress to rally behind this legislation.”