US Implements Visa Bans on Israeli Settlers Involved in West Bank Violence

The US State Department will impose visa bans on individuals involved in undermining peace, security, or stability in the occupied West Bank, targeting those who have committed acts of violence or restricted civilians' access to essential services. The visa bans may also apply to the family members of those individuals. President Joe Biden and other US officials have warned Israel to take action against extremist settlers who have committed violent attacks against Palestinians. The first bans will be imposed on Tuesday, with more designations to follow, ultimately impacting dozens of people. Israel has occupied the West Bank since 1967 and has built Jewish settlements there, which most countries deem illegal. Daily settler attacks have increased since the Hamas attack on Israel in October. The US wants Israel to prosecute those responsible for the violence and urges the Palestinian Authority to do more to curb attacks against Israelis.