UK PM Burnham Considers Sanctions on Israel Amid US Retaliation Fears

New British Prime Minister Andy Burnham is reportedly considering imposing broad sanctions on Israel, including a trade ban with settlements in the West Bank, in response to Israel's plan to build 1,200 housing units in the E1 area of Judea and Samaria. At least 140 Labour Party members of Parliament have urged Burnham to take stronger measures than any other European country, extending trade restrictions beyond goods originating from the West Bank to other sectors as well.

However, there is significant concern within the UK government about potential backlash from the United States. British MPs have warned that such sanctions could provoke severe retaliatory actions from the White House, possibly igniting a trade war between the UK and the US. This apprehension stems from recent harsh responses by the American administration to similar moves by European countries.

Last month, the US criticized Ireland for passing legislation restricting trade with the settlements, calling it "unhelpful" and warning of "unintended consequences" for hundreds of businesses. Additionally, former US President Donald Trump threatened a full trade embargo on Spain after it banned imports from Judea and Samaria last year, amid broader tensions including Spain's refusal to allow US military use of its bases for operations in Iran.