Belgium will deny entry to Israeli settlers committing anti-Palestinian violence in the West Bank

On Wednesday, December 6, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo declared that Israeli extremist settlers would be denied entry into the country. "Violence against civilians will have consequences," he warned.

Alexander De Croo announced that Belgium would collaborate with the United States to impose sanctions on individuals involved in actions undermining peace, security, and stability in the West Bank.

The day prior, on December 5, the U.S. State Department announced a new visa policy targeting residents of settlements in Judea and Samaria who had participated in attacks against Palestinians.

"Today, the State Department is implementing a new visa restriction policy targeting individuals believed to have been involved in undermining peace, security, or stability in the West Bank, including through committing acts of violence or taking other actions that unduly restrict civilians' access to essential services and necessities. Immediate family members of such persons also may be subject to these restrictions," stated U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Blinken emphasized that this policy may apply not only to Israelis but also to Palestinians involved in cases of violence in the West Bank.