1. United States
2. Mich.
3. Letter

I am writing to you regarding the escalation of violence by Israeli forces in the West Bank, which Israel illegally occupies. On August 28th, Israel launched a major military incursion, deploying armoured vehicles, bulldozers, snipers, drones, and aircraft. Homes and businesses have been reduced to rubble, with civilians shot by snipers and bombed by drones. Over 30 Palestinians have already been killed in recent days, with more than 680 already murdered by settlers and Israeli forces since Oct 7. The latest bombardment and military action adopts tactics used in the ongoing Gaza genocide, suggesting we can expect to see the death toll skyrocket in the West Bank too. We cannot ignore that the West Bank is illegally occupied by Israel, and the International Court of Justice has ruled that a system of apartheid is imposed there. The ruling required all settlers and occupation forces to leave the West Bank, yet Israel’s actions double down on the illegal occupation and disregard for Palestinian lives. Over 70% of roads and infrastructure in Jenin have been completely destroyed. Israel has cut off water and electricity to parts of the West Bank, and curfews and telecommunication blackouts have been imposed. Palestinians are also under siege from illegal settlers who are attacking their homes, burning olive trees, and stealing livestock. Civilians have been shot at point-blank range, including children; people abducted and taken hostage; homes and shops burned down; and ambulances raided. Israeli forces have also used drones to carry out airstrikes on groups of Palestinians in the streets, and new illegal checkpoints are being erected to further restrict movement. Since October 7th, at least 681 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli military forces and settlers across the West Bank, including 154 children. 5,600 Palestinians have been wounded, and at least 10,400 have been arrested or detained. What is happening in the West Bank is illegal. Even before the recent incursion, Israel’s actions in the West Bank were illegal. The inaction of the international community must come to an immediate end. Crimes against humanity cannot be met with words of condemnation, there must be accountability. We have a legal and moral obligation to take action. An arms embargo and a two-way trade embargo must be enforced until Israel ceases its illegal occupation, apartheid and other human rights violations; this will also add pressure for a ceasefire in Gaza. Recognising the State of Palestine and supporting the prosecution of all perpetrators of war crimes and crimes against humanity is essential. I look forward to your commitment to upholding international law through these actions.