The US State Department has found that five Israeli security units committed human rights violations before the conflict with Hamas in Gaza, but four of them have remediated these violations. They are still deciding whether to restrict military assistance to the remaining unit, which is believed to be the ultra-orthodox Netzah Yehuda battalion. The US is in discussions with the Israeli government and reviewing additional information provided by them to make a decision on restricting aid. None of the incidents occurred in Gaza and took place before October 7.
The Leahy Law prohibits the US from providing aid to foreign security units implicated in human rights abuses, but there are exceptions if the country is taking effective steps to hold those responsible accountable. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has mentioned making a determination under the law, stating that the process is deliberate and focuses on gathering all relevant information before reaching a decision. The US is engaging with Israel to ensure compliance with human rights standards before deciding on aid restrictions.
The Israeli government has disclosed previously undisclosed actions in recent weeks in response to US inquiries about human rights violations by security units. The US is reviewing these actions to determine if they meet the criteria for lifting aid restrictions. The consultation process between the US and Israel is ongoing, and additional information provided by Israel is being considered in the decision-making process.
The US State Department expressed its commitment to thorough investigations and adherence to human rights standards in the process of determining aid restrictions under the Leahy Law. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the importance of gathering all facts and information before making a decision on aid restrictions to ensure compliance with human rights standards. The US continues to engage with the Israeli government to address human rights concerns and ensure accountability for violations.
The situation remains fluid as the US State Department continues to review the actions taken by Israeli security units in response to human rights violations. The decision on aid restrictions is pending further consultations with the Israeli government and consideration of additional information provided by Israeli authorities. The US is committed to upholding human rights standards and ensuring accountability for human rights abuses by foreign security units receiving US assistance.
As this story unfolds, updates will be provided as new information becomes available. The US State Department is actively engaged in discussions with Israel regarding human rights violations by security units and decisions on aid restrictions under the Leahy Law. The process involves a deliberate and thorough review of all relevant information to determine the appropriate course of action in line with human rights principles.
