The Biden Administration has issued a new Executive Order (EO) to implement measures specifically addressing foreign persons who threaten peace, security, and stability in the West Bank.
The Secretary of State, along with the Secretary of the Treasury, will enforce these measures via sanctions.
Sanctions may include asset blocking, financial restrictions, and visa restrictions.
The State Department will initially apply sanctions to four individuals known to engage in violence and intimidation, including actions resulting in a civilian's death.
Context for Academy Officials
Governance in Conflict Zones: This EO emphasizes the challenges governments face in maintaining peace and order in the face of extremist violence, regardless of nationality or religious affiliation. Consider how government officials may weigh domestic pressure against international pressure.
Executive Orders & Sanctions: Examine the use of Executive Orders to achieve foreign policy and law enforcement objectives. How do sanctions like these fit into broader approaches to international and domestic conflict resolution?
Legal & Ethical Considerations: Officials must balance security measures with human rights protections. How do actions like sanctions comply with due process, and address international humanitarian law?
Actionable Learning for the Academy
Case Study: Using official statements and news reports, examine the circumstances that led to this EO and the subsequent sanctions announcement. Discuss how various government agencies might coordinate actions under the EO.
Policy Forum: Hold a mock forum where attendees represent different stakeholders: Israeli and Palestinian government officials, security professionals, human rights advocates. Debate the potential effectiveness and long-term implications of these sanctions.
Comparative Analysis: Explore similar instances of other governments using sanctions, travel restrictions, or asset freezes to deter specific behavior or address security concerns. Compare those examples to the West Bank situation.
Important Considerations
Remain sensitive to the complex and evolving situation in the West Bank. Present facts neutrally to allow academy officials to form their own opinions.
Encourage exploration of primary sources such as the press briefing transcript and Executive Order itself