Just last month, Australia announced its intention to sanction two far-right Israeli ministers, Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich. This step is taken in concert with other countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, and Norway. Increasing international tensions have escalated over their purported complicity in inciting violence against fleeing Palestinians. These moves have fueled conditions for grave human rights violations.
Itamar Ben-Gvir, the National Security Minister in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government. He has been accused of inciting extremist violence, especially targeting Palestinian civilians. The Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has attracted stinging criticism. Many have condemned him for further inciting violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. Both of these men have now been sanctioned by the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom for their actions.
Australia’s Stance
Penny Wong, Australia’s Foreign Minister, explained the policy basis for this move. She stated that both Ben-Gvir and Smotrich have “incited extremist violence and serious abuses of Palestinian human rights.” Wong passionately called on leaders to start being held accountable for their incendiary rhetoric. He called attention to the hazards of using language that normalizes the displacement of Palestinians and encourages illegal expansion of Israeli settlements.
Wong’s comments voice a growing concern from many leaders over the increasing violence across Israel and the West Bank. Her approach is proactive and consistent with the growing international demand for restraint and respect for human rights during escalating conflict.
“Extremist rhetoric advocating the forced displacement of Palestinians and the creation of new Israeli settlements is appalling and dangerous,” – Penny Wong
US Response
The United States responded positively to Australia’s sanctions. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted that these measures do not contribute to U.S.-led efforts aimed at achieving a ceasefire or resolving ongoing conflicts. The U.S. government even raised concerns over the message that such moves would send to ongoing peace talks between the region and the federal government.
According to a recent statement from U.S. officials, “These sanctions do not advance U.S.-led efforts to achieve a ceasefire, bring all hostages home, and end the war.” First, the U.S. government regards Hamas as a terrorist organization that commits inhumane atrocities. They encourage their partners not to lose sight of what the real enemy is.
“We reject any notion of equivalence: Hamas is a terrorist organization that committed unspeakable atrocities, continues to hold innocent civilians hostage, and prevents the people of Gaza from living in peace.” – US statement
International Implications
Australia and its allies, including the United States, have sanctioned Ben-Gvir and Smotrich. This step underscores an important growing trend — the shift in governments’ understanding of accountability for what their leaders do in war zones. To some, the sanctions represent a growing consensus among countries to stand up to attacks on human rights around the world.
Anthony Albanese, Australia’s Prime Minister and local member, is going to open a new terminal at Western Sydney International Airport. What’s come next had critics calling for Trudeau’s resignation all over the world. Critics warn that Australia’s slide into line with other members on this issue could have long-lasting ramifications for its diplomatic relations.
