UK Considers Trade Ban on West Bank Settlement Goods

British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband indicated in Parliament on Tuesday that the UK is closely considering imposing a ban on trade with products originating from West Bank settlements. Miliband stated that additional measures are being prepared.

During a debate on Israeli actions in the West Bank, Miliband was questioned about the effectiveness of current measures in altering the Israeli government's behavior. He expressed deep concern over the pace of developments, stating that new, illegal settlements aim to destroy the possibility of a two-state solution and that "we cannot simply stand by and allow that to happen."

Miliband revealed that the government is working on "effective steps" to review economic and trade relations. He referenced the Prime Minister's prior commitment to taking further action against trade with illegal settlements. "We are working on these steps within government and with our allies, and if you have a little patience in the coming weeks, we will have more to say," he added.

Pressed further, Miliband clarified the objective: "We do not want British companies to fund, build, or promote new settlements. The work we are doing now is looking at how to stop that. As I said, I will have more to say soon."

These remarks follow increased international tension and reports from the previous week that U.S. President Donald Trump allegedly warned British Prime Minister Andy Burnham, stating that imposing sanctions on the West Bank, including its products, would trigger a trade war.

In response to potential U.S. pressure, Israeli officials are reportedly considering expelling British officials from the International Coordination Center in Kiryat Gat. Additionally, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar has reportedly refused an additional phone call from Miliband due to the planned measures.