Israel Fears Wider Boycott After 12 Nations Ban Settlement Goods

Twelve Western nations announced a ban on imports from West Bank settlements, sparking concern among Israeli exporters about potential repercussions and an expanded boycott. The Israeli Ministry of Economy acknowledged the move, with Foreign Trade Department director Roi Fischer stating that settlement exports amount to a small $34 million annually, compared to Israel's total exports of $44 billion. However, the ministry fears the boycott could extend beyond settlements to encompass all Israeli exports.

British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband declared the UK would prohibit imports from "illegal settlements in occupied territories" and expand sanctions to include services like infrastructure, finance, and real estate that facilitate settlement expansion. This action follows a construction tender in the E1 area. Miliband also stated Britain would reject any arms exports contributing to the occupation of the West Bank.

Speaking before the House of Commons, Miliband characterized the situation in the West Bank as "ethnic cleansing" carried out by "terrorist settlers," and accused the Israeli government of "turning a blind eye" to this activity. He further alleged that some Israeli government members have made statements and taken actions aimed at supporting the forced displacement of Palestinians.

Miliband reaffirmed the British government's commitment to a two-state solution, expressing personal shame over the events in Palestine. The 12 countries imposing the import ban are Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Iceland, Ireland, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.