The IDF Spokesman released a statement on Sunday addressing reports that the United States is expected to issue sanctions against the haredi Netzach Yehuda Battalion.
"The IDF Netzah Yehuda Battalion soldiers are currently participating in the war effort in the Gaza Strip. The battalion is professionally and bravely conducting operations in accordance to the IDF Code of Ethics and with full commitment to international law." the statement opened.
It added that "In recent years, the battalion's soldiers have been at the heart of operational duties working around the clock in order to protect Israeli civilians while being a leading battalion with regards to the recruitment of ultra-Orthodox citizens to the IDF."
The IDF spokesman addressed the reports and stated that "the reports regarding sanctions against the Netzah Yehuda Battalion are not currently known to the IDF. Should such a decision be made on the matter, its consequences will be reviewed. The IDF remains committed to continue to examine exceptional incidents professionally and according to law."
On Saturday it was reported that US Secretary of State Antony Blinken decided to issue sanctions against the battalion based on incidents that happened in Judea and Samaria before the October 7th massacre. The battalion is considered one of the more popular destinations for "hilltop youth" seeking enlistment in the IDF and has been accused of abusive conduct towards Palestinian Arabs in the past.
Secretary Blinken stated that the sanctions were called for under the Leahy law which forbids aid to foreign militaries that violate international law, and that the decision had been made after a lengthy and careful investigation.