US Continues Military Aid To Israeli Unit Despite Human Rights Concerns

Israeli military units operate at an undisclosed location near the Gaza Strip border

The United States has announced that it will not restrict military aid to an Israeli Defense Forces unit accused of human rights violations against Palestinians in the West Bank. The decision was made after determining that the violations were effectively remediated, according to a statement from the State Department.

Earlier this year, the US had accused five Israeli security units, including the Netzah Yehuda battalion, of committing gross violations of human rights. While four units were found to have remediated the violations, Netzah Yehuda was under scrutiny until recently.

Netzah Yehuda, an ultra-Orthodox unit of the IDF, was relocated from the West Bank to the Golan Heights in 2022. Following an incident involving the death of a Palestinian American detainee, the unit's commander was reprimanded. However, no soldiers faced criminal charges in connection with the incident.

Despite concerns raised by critics, the US has decided to continue providing security assistance to the unit. Remediation measures taken by the Israeli government include removing two soldiers from combat positions, enhancing screening requirements for recruits, and implementing new control mechanisms during training.

Netzah Yehuda battalion accused of human rights violations in the West Bank.

US State Department found violations by Israeli units were remediated.

Unit relocated to Golan Heights after incident involving a Palestinian American detainee.

The decision falls under the Leahy Law, which prohibits US assistance to foreign security units implicated in human rights abuses. However, there is an exception if the Secretary of State determines that effective steps are being taken to address the violations.

The Biden administration has faced criticism for its handling of the situation, with some accusing it of failing to pressure Israel on its actions in Gaza. Recent Israeli strikes resulting in civilian casualties have further intensified calls for action.

Despite pressure from Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the US has maintained its stance on providing aid to the Netzah Yehuda battalion. The State Department clarified that Israel was not receiving preferential treatment and that the decision was based on the remediation efforts undertaken by the unit.