The Japanese government has imposed sanctions on four Israeli settlers involved in violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, marking the first time Japan has sanctioned Israelis.

"Violence, threats, and destruction of property in Palestinian communities by extremists is a serious problem. Settlers often kill or injure Palestinians or force them to leave their homes," said Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Haishi, as quoted by the Japan Times.

The sanctioned individuals include Yinon Levi, Zvi Bar Yosef, Moshe Sharvit, and Neriah Ban Pazi. Previously, the US, UK, and Canada have also imposed sanctions on settler representatives.