Britain to impose trade restrictions on West Bank settlements, drawing U.S. and Israeli criticism
The United Kingdom is set to announce an embargo on goods and some services linked to Israeli settlements in the West Bank, according to reports. The move follows a phone call between Prime Minister Andy Burnham and President Donald Trump, during which Burnham stressed the importance of a two-state solution. U.S. and Israeli officials have already voiced strong opposition to the planned sanctions.
The forthcoming measures, to be formally introduced by Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband, represent an escalation of London's pressure on Israel. They specifically respond to settlement growth, including the E1 development east of Jerusalem, which Britain considers a critical threshold for preserving a viable two-state outcome.
The timing follows a call between Prime Minister Andy Burnham and President Donald Trump, though the official readout omitted any mention of the trade actions. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has already demanded the British ambassador be expelled, accusing the UK government of antisemitism.
The sanctions could strain the UK-US alliance, potentially complicating joint diplomatic efforts on Middle Eastern security. Israeli exporters and Palestinian laborers in settlement zones may face economic disruption, while the UK's stance could encourage other European states to follow suit. Conversely, Washington's firm support for Israel may limit the practical impact of the embargo. Domestically, the decision might test the new government's foreign policy credibility and its relationship with pro-Israel constituencies.