The Biden administration has announced visa restrictions on former Israel Defense Forces (IDF) sergeant Elor Azaria for his involvement in a gross violation of human rights, specifically an extrajudicial killing in the West Bank. This action will also extend to Azaria's immediate family, barring them from entering the United States.
In a statement, the State Department spokesperson revealed that additional visa restrictions are being pursued against individuals who have contributed to undermining peace, security, or stability in the West Bank. These measures target those who have used violence against individuals or property, as well as those who have restricted civilians' access to essential services like food, water, electricity, or medical supplies.
The Biden administration has been implementing punitive measures against individuals accused of violence and human rights violations in the West Bank. Recent sanctions were imposed on an extremist organization and settlements in Palestinian territory, with calls for the Israeli government to hold violent settlers accountable.
However, a decision is pending on whether to restrict aid to an IDF battalion, Netzah Yehuda, which was found to have committed human rights violations prior to the Gaza conflict. Former commanders of this unit have since been promoted to senior positions in the IDF, raising concerns.
Azaria gained notoriety in 2016 when he was charged with manslaughter for fatally shooting a wounded Palestinian assailant, Abdel Fattah al-Sharif, in Hebron. Video evidence showed Azaria shooting Sharif in the head while he was injured and subdued on the ground.
During a State Department briefing, it was emphasized that the US is obligated to impose visa restrictions on officials found guilty of gross human rights violations. The administration's actions underscore its commitment to upholding human rights standards and promoting accountability for such violations.
