US Congressman Threatens UK Firms With Florida Ban Over Israel Settlement Boycott

U.S. Republican Congressman Randy Fine has warned British companies of severe repercussions in Florida should they comply with any potential British government mandate to boycott Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Fine, who represents Florida in the U.S. House of Representatives, stated that a law he previously championed in the Florida Legislature would prohibit any British company forced into such a boycott from conducting business with state or local governments in Florida. Furthermore, any British firm participating in such a boycott would effectively be barred from operating in Florida if their operations require any official interaction with state or local authorities, including obtaining permits or collecting taxes.

Fine emphasized Florida's significant trade relationship with the UK, suggesting that such a move could cost British companies billions of dollars. He cited the 2019 instance where Airbnb reportedly ended its boycott of Israeli settlements after facing pressure from this Florida law, which the company feared could lead to bankruptcy. Fine asserted that Florida's stance is clear: any company or country boycotting Israel will itself face a boycott from Florida.

The congressman's statement comes as the British government is reportedly considering new measures to prohibit trade with Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The UK considers these settlements illegal under international law and views their expansion as an obstacle to a Palestinian state. Previously, the British government had already strengthened its guidance to businesses, urging them to disengage from economic activities in the settlements. In August, London, along with other nations, also called on companies not to participate in tenders for construction in the E1 area.

According to the Financial Times, the proposed measures would specifically target trade with settlements in Judea and Samaria, not a broader boycott of Israel. Implementing such a trade ban might necessitate new legislation. This initiative reflects a hardening of the UK's position on Israeli settlements.