US Sanctions Against Israeli NGO Based on Misleading Information, Says Hashomer Yosh

An Israeli nonprofit, Hashomer Yosh, is speaking out against the recent U.S. sanctions imposed on the organization, claiming that the decision is rooted in misinformation spread by left-wing groups. Hashomer Yosh, which is dedicated to supporting farmers and safeguarding agricultural land in Judea and Samaria, has categorically denied the accusations leveled against it.

In a statement to Israel’s Kan public broadcaster, Meir Bertler, the group’s foreign relations chief, emphasized the legality of Hashomer Yosh’s activities, which are conducted in coordination with the Israeli government. "We ask, why? And we have an answer," Bertler said, arguing that the sanctions are based on "false and distorted information conveyed by left-wing groups."

The U.S. State Department announced the sanctions on Wednesday, accusing Hashomer Yosh of supporting "extremist settler violence" in Judea and Samaria. The department’s spokesperson, Matthew Miller, linked the nonprofit to activities that he claimed undermine regional peace and stability. Among the allegations were that Hashomer Yosh had supported the already sanctioned Meitarim Farm and other individuals, and had allegedly prevented 250 Palestinians from returning to their village in January.

Hashomer Yosh has rejected these claims outright. The organization issued a statement condemning the U.S. decision as a "fundamentally wrong political decision," asserting that it operates within the law and plays a crucial role in supporting agriculture across Israel. "Sanctions on the guard are the same as sanctions on the State of Israel," the statement read, urging solidarity in support of "Hebrew agriculture in the Land of Israel."

Bertler further refuted the notion that the group engages in any violent activities, stating that there have been "zero confrontations" with Palestinians in the course of their work. He highlighted the group's funding from Israeli government ministries and its cooperation with authorities, dismissing accusations that Hashomer Yosh functions as a "private police force."

The Israeli government has responded with sharp criticism of the U.S. sanctions. The Prime Minister’s Office expressed deep concern, labeling the sanctions as a severe measure against Israeli citizens and confirming that discussions with the U.S. are ongoing to address the issue.

This marks the latest action under President Joe Biden’s Executive Order 14115, which targets what the administration describes as "extremist settler violence." The order has led to sanctions on 23 Israeli organizations and individuals, as well as one Palestinian entity, the Lions’ Den terrorist group.

Hashomer Yosh maintains that the U.S. has made a significant error in its assessment, and they are actively working to reverse the sanctions.

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