Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said today he would fight against sanctions against any Israeli military unit, following media reports that Washington was planning such a step against a battalion for alleged human rights abuses.

Yesterday, Saturday, the Axios news website reported that Washington plans to impose sanctions against the Netzah Yehuda Brigade that has operated in the occupied West Bank.

The Israeli military said it was not aware of any measures being taken.

“If anyone thinks they can sanction a unit of the Israeli Armed Forces (IDF) — I will fight it with all my might,” Netanyahu said in a statement.

The Israeli military has stated that the Netzah Yehuda Battalion is an active combat unit that operates in accordance with the principles of international law.

“Following reports of sanctions against the battalion, the IDF (states that) it is not aware of the matter. If a decision is made on the matter it will be reviewed. The IDF is working and will continue to work to investigate any unusual event in a practical manner and according with the law,” the military said.

Among other things, Netanyahu warned that “in the coming days, we will increase military and diplomatic pressure on Hamas because this is the only way to free our hostages and achieve our victory.”

“Instead of withdrawing from its extreme positions, Hamas is counting on a rift between us. It is encouraged by the pressure on the government of Israel. As a result, she has simply hardened her terms for the release of our hostages. She hardens her heart and refuses to let our people go,” added the Israeli prime minister.