Britain, along with France, Canada, and other nations, has announced coordinated measures against Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband informed parliament that the UK will introduce an import ban on goods produced in these settlements as part of efforts to support a two-state solution.
The decision comes in response to what Miliband described as settler terrorism and increasing attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinian villages in the occupied territory. Western governments fear these actions threaten the two-state solution. The UK has condemned plans to expand the settlements, which are widely considered illegal under international law.
This move represents a stark break from the UK's traditional role as a staunch supporter of Israel and underscores Israel's mounting isolation over its policies toward Palestinians following the war in Gaza. While the product ban is likely to have a limited impact on trade between the two countries, the measures go well beyond previous related sanctions.
The coordinated actions were taken even at the risk of provoking criticism from President Donald Trump and warnings of US repercussions. Officials noted that the move could prompt an angry response or retaliation from Israel.