Jerusalem: On the first anniversary of Israel's war on the Gaza Strip, the United States has imposed sanctions on the radical Israeli activist group 'Hilltop Youth' for their violent activities against Palestinian communities in the occupied West Bank. The group has been accused of carrying out killings and mass arson attacks. According to Anadolu Agency, the US Treasury Department has designated the Hilltop Youth as a violent extremist group. The group has been involved in several attacks, including a notorious incident in al-Mugharryir village in April that resulted in one death and several homes and vehicles being set ablaze. The sanctions mirror similar actions taken by the EU, the UK, and Australia earlier this year. Israeli news outlet The Times of Israel has downplayed the significance of these sanctions, suggesting that the Hilltop Youth is not a formal organization. However, the US Treasury's statement emphasized the group's history of "price tag" attacks aimed at intimidating Palestinian civilians and exacting revenge. The Hilltop Youth, established in 1998, is comprised of settlers aged between 16 and 26 who live in outposts across the West Bank. These individuals frequently engage in attacks against Palestinians and are responsible for numerous acts of violence and intimidation. The group has historical ties to the Gush Emunim movement, a radical Zionist organization founded in 1974. The group's activities have been conducted under the observation of Israeli military and police forces. Reports indicate that the Hilltop Youth has participated in thwarting smuggling attempts from Jordan, alongside the Israeli army. Despite their actions, several Israeli ministers, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, have defended the group in response to US sanctions. The Hilltop Youth and their supporters adhere to extremist ideologies that reject peace with Palestinians and promote the seizure of Palestinian land. These beliefs are supported by various Israel i political parties, including Smotrich's Religious Zionism Party. The group is also known for supporting Israel's military actions in Gaza, which have resulted in significant casualties.