Imposing Certain Sanctions on Persons Undermining Peace in the West Bank

Feb 5, 2024

Summary

Allows the U.S. to block money and stop travel for people involved in violence or who threaten peace in the West Bank.

What problem does this solve?

High levels of violence, people being forced from their homes, and property destruction in the West Bank threaten regional peace. This order allows the U.S. to punish those responsible by blocking their money and property in the U.S. and banning them from entering the country.

What does this order do?

Blocks property and assets

Freezes all property and money in the U.S. belonging to foreign persons who are found to be undermining peace, security, or stability in the West Bank.

Suspends U.S. entry

Bans individuals who meet the sanction criteria from entering the United States, either as immigrants or nonimmigrants.

Defines sanctionable actions

Specifies that actions like violence against civilians, property destruction, or forcing people to move can lead to sanctions.

Prohibits support for sanctioned individuals

Forbids providing money, goods, or services to any person whose property has been blocked by this order.

Declares a national emergency

States that the situation in the West Bank is an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States.

Who does this affect?

Foreign individuals involved in extremist violence in the West Bank
Palestinian and Israeli civilians in the West Bank
U.S. persons and financial institutions

What is the real world impact?

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Protects U.S. foreign policy goals

Aims to preserve the possibility of a two-state solution and ensure Israelis and Palestinians can achieve equal security and freedom, which are long-standing U.S. objectives.

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Prevents wider regional conflict

Addresses actions that could destabilize the Middle East, which would threaten U.S. personnel and interests in the region.

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Targets specific individuals, not governments

Focuses sanctions on specific foreign persons engaged in violence, rather than imposing broader penalties on any government entity, allowing for a more targeted diplomatic approach.

When does this start?

This order takes effect immediately as of its signing on February 1, 2024.