Israel Ministers Blast UK Over Expected Settlement Trade Ban

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir have strongly criticized Britain following reports that the UK is preparing to ban trade with Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Smotrich called for the British ambassador to be expelled from Israel, stating, "We will not be a scapegoat for an anti-Semitic government in a country invaded by extremist Islam, which is trying to escape economic and social collapse by attacking Jews and the State of Israel. The British Mandate over Israel has ended."

Ben-Gvir, meanwhile, posted on X in Spanish, advocating for Argentina's recognition of its claim to the Falkland Islands and calling for sanctions against Britain. He wrote, "It is time for the State of Israel to recognize that the Falkland Islands are occupied Argentine territory."

The expected British decision, reportedly to be announced Tuesday, is part of a broader governmental effort to reshape UK policy on the Israeli-Palestinian issue. The Jerusalem Post reported that the British decision is expected to cover goods produced in settlements, with potential extensions to services as well. This follows recent reports that British Prime Minister Andy Burnham had considered imposing trade restrictions.