Israel slams US crackdown as top IDF battalion faces sanctions over claims of human rights abuse [Video]

ISRAELI leaders were today said to be “aghast” at an unprecedented US crackdown on one of its key army units over human rights abuses.

America is set to sanction the Israeli Defence Force’s notorious Netzah Yehuda battalion over allegations of killing, persecution and torture of Palestinians.

The right-wing, ultra Orthodox Jewish battalion stands accused of appalling violations in Israel’s West Bank territory and is now operating among troops battling Hamas in Gaza.

The sanction plan was revealed as US Congress approved a £21.34 billion military aid package for Israel – including £7.36 billion in humanitarian aid for Gaza.

Curbs have been proposed for the first time, barring the transfer of US weapons or funds to the infantry unit and banning training with American forces.

Angry Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahupledged to fight the proposals …