What it is about
The U.S. Treasury Department fixed a mix-up involving sanctions where an Israeli citizen, Aviad Shlomo Sarid, was mistakenly confused with a right-wing activist of a similar name, Shlomo Yehezkel Hai Sarid, from the Tzav 9 group.
Why it matters
The correction underscores the sensitivity and importance of accurate information in sanction application, impacting Israeli citizens’ lives and the broader socio-political context in Israel.
Detailed breakdown
Error in Sanctions
On Thursday, Washington issued a fifth set of sanctions against Israeli extremists and illegal outposts, aimed at curtailing their activities. However, an error was made when Aviad Shlomo Sarid was confused with Shlomo Yehezkel Hai Sarid, listing the innocent citizen’s ID number and birthdate.
Treasury Department’s Response
Upon identifying the error, the U.S. Treasury promptly corrected the details on Monday, updating their list with the accurate information. However, it remains unclear whether an official apology was extended to Aviad Shlomo Sarid.
Affected Individual
Aviad Sarid, living in West Bank’s Revava settlement, experienced blocked bank accounts and credit cards. Appearing in his Israel Defense Forces uniform during a Kan news interview, he mentioned he has been serving as a reservist far from the area of Tzav 9 activities.
Views from Tzav 9
In contrast, Shlomo Yehezkel Hai Sarid and the Tzav 9 group Leudspor, they vow to maintain their stance against aid to Gaza until all hostages are freed. They argue that their efforts are legitimate protests against policies they see as harmful to Israeli soldiers.
Background on Sanctions
The sanctions targeted several individuals and entities, including Shlomo Yehezkel Hai Sarid and Reut Ben Haim, co-chairs of Tzav 9, a group known for blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza. Additional sanctions applied to illegal West Bank outposts linked to violence against Palestinians.
Broader Context
This incident and the resulting sanctions highlight the ongoing tension and complex dynamics around Israeli settler activities and US-Israel relations. The differentiation between state-authorized settlements and illegal outposts continues to be a contentious topic. The Israeli government often retroactively authorizes such settlements.
Responses
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Lehava group leader Benzi Gopstein expressed strong opposition to these new sanctions, calling upon the Israeli government to protect its citizen’s rights against what they perceive as unwarranted and intrusive measures by the American administration.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.