Israel Braces for UK Sanctions Over Settlements This Week

Israel is preparing for the possibility that Britain may announce new measures against the Jewish state as early as this week, with Jerusalem's primary concern being potential restrictions on economic activity related to Israeli settlements. According to a report in Maariv, Israeli officials believe the government of Andy Burnham could implement these measures by early September. This potential move is reportedly driven by internal political pressures from the left wing of the Labour Party and voters threatening to defect to the Green Party. Israeli sources described the situation as "politics par excellence."

While the full scope of any potential British actions remains unclear, possibilities range from limited, conditional measures to broader restrictions on trade, services, and business and financial activities. Israeli apprehension has been heightened by statements from British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband on August 19, who indicated that London would present a package of measures, including sanctions against those involved in settlement expansion, in the "coming weeks" following the advancement of the E1 plan.

Jerusalem is reportedly attempting to influence Britain's decision, but Israeli officials acknowledge that internal British political considerations are making this difficult. Israel has also signaled that it will respond significantly if London proceeds with such measures, stating, "There will be a significant Israeli response."