Key Highlights
- Singapore imposes financial sanctions and entry bans on four Israelis for “extreme violence” against Palestinians.
- The sanctioned individuals are Meir Mordechai Ettinger, Elisha Yered, Ben-Zion (Benzi) Gopstein, and Baruch Marzel.
- The move comes amid a recent surge in Jewish nationalist crime and settler violence in the West Bank.
- Singapore opposes acts that are illegal under international law, as part of its support for a two-state solution.
Background on the Sanctions Decision
Singapore’s decision to sanction four Israelis is part of a broader effort by the city-state to uphold international law and promote peace in the region. The targeted individuals—Meir Mordechai Ettinger, Elisha Yered, Ben-Zion (Benzi) Gopstein, and Baruch Marzel—are accused of “egregious acts of extreme violence” against Palestinians in the West Bank. According to Singapore’s foreign ministry, these actions are not only unlawful but also jeopardize the prospects for a two-state solution.
Profile of the Sanctioned Individuals
Elisha Yered is considered the unofficial spokesperson of the Hilltop Youth, a group known for establishing illegal outposts in the West Bank and often clashing with Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers, Palestinians, and left-wing activists. Meir Mordechai Ettinger is the grandson of the late extremist rabbi Meir Kahane, and a well-known hilltop youth activist who has faced allegations of participation in violent attacks against Palestinians. Ben-Zion Gopstein leads the Lehava anti-miscegenation group, which has been targeted by sanctions from other countries. Baruch Marzel is an American immigrant to Israel who lives in Hebron, and was once a close associate of Meir Kahane.
International Response and Context
Singapore’s move is part of a growing international trend towards sanctioning Israeli settlers for their violent actions. The city-state has already sanctioned leaders of other settler groups, chided Israeli politicians who speak about annexation, and expressed support for the UN recognition of a Palestinian state under certain conditions. This decision comes amid heightened tensions in the West Bank, where Jewish nationalist crime and settler violence have surged.
Implications and Broader Context
The sanctions imposed by Singapore reflect the broader international community’s stance on Israeli settlements, which are considered illegal under international law. While Israel disputes this, maintaining that the settlements provide security and have historical and biblical ties to the area, the global consensus leans towards recognizing a Palestinian state. The move by Singapore also underscores its commitment to supporting such a solution, even as it maintains close diplomatic and military ties with Israel.
By taking these steps, Singapore is aligning itself with other nations in their efforts to hold Israeli settlers accountable for their actions, which are deemed illegal under international law. This could have significant implications for the ongoing peace process and the future of the two-state solution.
