US imposes sanctions on extremist West Bank settler group for violence against Palestinians

The U.S. has imposed sanctions on Hilltop Youth, an extremist settler group in the West Bank, for violence against Palestinians. The sanctions include asset freezes and travel bans for the group and two Israeli settlers linked to violence. This action comes amid rising violence against Palestinians since the Israel-Hamas war began on October 7. Reports indicate increased harassment and intimidation by settlers, including physical attacks and property damage. Hilltop Youth has previously faced sanctions from the EU and UK. The U.S. aims to hold accountable those responsible for actions that threaten stability in the region.