On Tuesday, the US Treasury Department, through the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), announced sanctions against Amana, an organization involved in the development of Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
Amana's subsidiary, Binyanei Bar Amana Ltd (BBA), which specializes in the construction and sale of housing in the occupied territories, is also targeted. These sanctions, issued under Executive Order 14115, “mark a coordinated effort between the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada to curb activities that threaten regional stability”.
A key player in the settlements
Amana plays a key role in the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The organization supports already-sanctioned agricultural outposts and individuals, such as settler Isaschar Manne and the Meitarim farm, for which it provides funding and infrastructure. These actions facilitate the illegal seizure of land and fuel settler violence, contributing to instability in the region.
In addition, Binyanei Bar Amana is directly involved in the construction and marketing of housing within settlements and outposts, reinforcing illegal settlement efforts.
The sanctions impose a freeze on all Amana and BBA assets held in the US or under US control. It is now forbidden for any American person or entity to conduct transactions with these companies.
Treasury Deputy Secretary Wally Adeyemo emphasized “the United States' commitment to working with allies to hold accountable those who destabilize the West Bank. According to Washington, these measures are aimed at protecting civilian access to essential services and preventing the escalation of tensions.
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