Recording of a conversation between Senator Peter Welch (D-VT) and NJN President and CEO Hadar Susskind from September 3, 2025.

Senator Welch recently reintroduced the SANCTIONS in the West Bank Act. This important legislation seeks to codify the Biden Administration Executive Order that imposed sanctions on those "undermining peace, security, and stability in the West Bank." While these sanctions did not end settler violence, their absence is keenly felt. Settler attacks on Palestinian civilians in the West Bank have skyrocketed by 30% since the repeal of the sanctions in January.

In conversation with NJN President and CEO Hadar Susskind, Senator Welch shared his perspective on why this bill matters now, how it fits into the broader struggle to hold the Israeli government accountable, and what role the US can play in advancing peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.