Israel Retaliates Against UK Sanctions with Drastic Measures

In response to British Foreign Secretary David Miliband's announcement of extensive sanctions against Israeli settlements in the West Bank, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar unveiled a series of forceful retaliatory steps. The escalation followed Miliband's claim in Parliament that the British government agrees there is ethnic cleansing in the West Bank, a statement Sa'ar deemed absurd and contemptible.

Sa'ar's countermeasures include the closure of the British Consulate in Jerusalem and the expulsion of British representatives from the international headquarters operating in Kiryat Gat. Israel will also cease its involvement in training Palestinian forces in Ramallah and impose a sweeping entry ban on 12 British public figures and citizens, including Member of Parliament Jeremy Corbyn and prominent pro-Palestinian activists.

The Israeli Foreign Minister sharply criticized the Labour government, accusing it of blatant interference in Israel's elections. Sa'ar asserted that the sanctions add to a series of unilateral actions by London, such as recognizing a Palestinian state, renewing funding for UNRWA, and targeting Israeli ministers.

He emphasized that while Israel has no issue with the British people, the hostile policy of the London government left Jerusalem with no choice but to take drastic measures. Sa'ar also noted that the sanctions are supported by a coalition of 11 other countries.

Economically, while senior officials in the Ministry of Economy suggest direct trade data does not indicate a dramatic economic event for Israel, concerns are growing in the market about a broader chilling effect. This could potentially lead to a quiet boycott and difficulties for Israeli exports across European markets.