Who Are Netzah Yehuda, Israeli Military Unit Soon To Face US Sanction?

Sanctions are expected to be imposed by the United States on an Israeli military unit, Netzah Yehuda, marking the first instance of US sanctions against Israel.

This move is anticipated to escalate tensions between the two allies amid Israel's conflict in Gaza.

Who Are Netzah Yehuda?

Sanctions connected to Israeli settlers in the West Bank were announced by the US, indicating a mounting sense of frustration with the policies of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Friday, as reported by Hindustan Times citing agencies. Prime Minister Netanyahu stated, "If anyone thinks they can impose sanctions on a unit in the IDF, I will fight it with all my might."

Although the unit targeted for sanctions was not specified by US officials, it has been identified by Israeli leaders and local media as Netzah Yehuda, an infantry battalion established around twenty-five years ago "to integrate ultra-Orthodox men into the military."

The military responded by stating, "Following publications about sanctions against the battalion, the IDF is unaware of the issue." The Israeli military further added, "If a decision is made, it will be reviewed. The IDF works and will continue to investigate any unusual event in a practical manner and according to law."

Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz, a former armed forces chief, revealed on Sunday that he had spoken with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and urged him "to reconsider the matter," as reported by Hindustan Times.

In response, the State Department confirmed Blinken's discussions with Gantz and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant regarding Israel's security, efforts to contain the Gaza conflict, and the urgent need for a ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid flow to Gaza civilians. However, the US statements did not mention sanctions.

Who are the Netzah Yehuda?

• Historical Deployment and Allegations: Netzah Yehuda, also known as Judea Forever, has historically been stationed in the occupied West Bank and has been associated with instances of mistreatment of Palestinians. Despite this, it represents only a small portion of Israel's military presence in the region, as reported by Hindustan Times.
• Scrutiny and Reprimand: In 2022, the unit came under substantial scrutiny from the US after the passing of an elderly Palestinian-American man shortly following his detention at a West Bank checkpoint. As a result, the battalion commander of Netzah Yehuda received a reprimand, and two officers were dismissed for the incident.
• Incidents and Accusations: Concerns in Washington were raised due to this incident. Additionally, there have been other incidents in recent years, some captured on video, where Netzah Yehuda soldiers have been accused of or charged with mistreating Palestinian detainees.
• Ongoing Allegations: According to Reuters, there have been numerous other incidents, some of which were recorded on video, where Netzah Yehuda soldiers faced allegations or charges of mistreating Palestinian detainees.
• Official Position: The Israeli military asserts that the Netzah Yehuda battalion operates as an active combat unit in accordance with international law principles.