US Military Assistance to Israeli Units Despite Human Rights Violations
Recent developments have shed light on the US State Department’s decision to continue providing military assistance to certain Israeli military units despite their involvement in serious human rights violations. Here is a breakdown of the situation:
Identification of Units
The US State Department has identified five Israeli military units as responsible for serious human rights violations in specific incidents. These units will continue to receive US military support.
Corrective Measures
While all incidents occurred outside of Gaza before the current conflict, Israel has taken corrective measures in four of the identified units. Additional information has been provided regarding the fifth unit.
Engagement with Israel
State Department spokesman Vedant Patel confirmed that five security forces units committed gross violations of human rights. He mentioned that discussions are ongoing with the Israeli government regarding the remediation process for the remaining unit.
Leahy Law and Accountability
Under America’s ‘Leahy Law’, serious human rights violations by foreign military units can lead to the suspension of US military assistance. The US government considers torture, extrajudicial killing, enforced disappearance, and rape as violations falling under this law.
Current Status
While Israel has taken steps to address the violations in four units, details of the incidents have not been disclosed. The decision to halt military aid to a fifth unit, believed to be the Netzah Yehuda battalion, is pending further information from Israel.
Future Actions
Secretary of State Antony Blinken has indicated forthcoming determinations regarding the situation, suggesting potential actions under the Leahy Law in the days ahead.
