Gaza, West Bank violence allegations: Ben-Gwer and Smotrich face travel, financial sanctions The UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Norway have imposed sanctions on two hardline Israeli ministers, National Security Minister Itmar Ben-Gwer and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. They are accused of inciting violence against Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza. Key points Nature of sanctions: Both ministers have been subject to asset freezes and travel restrictions. Charges: Ben-Gwer and Smotrich are accused of promoting extremist violence against Palestinians and human rights violations. Ben-Gwer’s past: He has been convicted of inciting racism and supporting a terrorist organization in the past. Political background: Both ministers head far-right parties that support Netanyahu’s weak government. Global reaction: The move reflects a changing mindset in Western countries towards Palestine, which have been critical of Israel’s aggression in Gaza and the West Bank. Gaza situation: More than 50,000 Palestinians have been martyred in Israeli bombardment since October 2023 The attacks on aid camps, schools, and hospitals continue, which has been strongly condemned by the international community. The position of the Western countries The foreign ministers of the five countries said in a joint statement that the forced evictions of Palestinians and support for illegal settlements in Ben Gweir and Smotrich are unacceptable. They held talks with the Israeli government, but found that the promotion of extremism continued. These sanctions are an important step taken by Israel's allies for the rights of the Palestinians, which can only increase pressure on Netanyahu's policies.