U.S. President Donald Trump has rescinded sanctions imposed by the previous administration on Israeli settlers accused of violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank.

The original sanctions, established under Executive Order 14115 by President Joe Biden in February 2024, targeted individuals and groups involved in actions undermining peace and stability in the region.

Israeli officials have lauded President Donald Trump’s decision. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich expressed gratitude for the unwavering support, interpreting the move as an affirmation of the Jewish people’s historical connection to the land.

He criticized the previous sanctions as foreign interference that undermined democratic principles and the U.S.-Israel relationship.

Conversely, Palestinian authorities have condemned the lifting of sanctions, arguing that it emboldens extremist settlers to commit further acts of violence against Palestinians.

Human rights organizations have documented a surge in settler attacks, with reports indicating an average of four incidents per day in the occupied West Bank since October 2024.

This policy reversal occurs amid a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, during which hostages have been released and humanitarian aid has flowed into Gaza. Despite the ceasefire, tensions remain high, with far-right Israeli politicians threatening to resume military actions if their objectives are not met.