UK Threatens Expanded Sanctions on Israeli Settlements, Cites Palestinian Suffering

The United Kingdom is considering broadening or narrowing its new sanctions targeting Israeli settlements in Judea and Samaria, depending on the actions of Israel's next government. A British official indicated that London retains flexibility in implementing these measures, with technical details to be finalized within six to nine months. Key conditions for Israel include limiting settlement expansion, curbing settler violence, making political progress with the Palestinians, and halting actions that undermine the Palestinian Authority.

London views Israel's commitment not to advance the E1 settlement project before elections and to delay new housing tenders as a factor leading to the sanctions announcement. The measures will prohibit imports from Judea and Samaria settlements, including the Jordan Valley, and may target companies, organizations, or individuals involved in financing, building, or supporting settlements. The application of sanctions to sensitive sectors like Israeli banks is still under consideration.

In response to the sanctions, Israel ordered the closure of the British consulate in Jerusalem within 30 days and excluded British representatives from the International Support Center for Gaza in Kiryat Gat. British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband called these actions "regrettable and damaging," arguing that excluding diplomats hinders efforts for the U.S. plan for Gaza. Miliband also rejected criticism from British Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, who called the sanctions a "dark day for British Jews" and a potential boost to anti-Israel extremism.

Miliband stated on the BBC that the UK is not specifically targeting Israel and cannot ignore Palestinian suffering, while assuring that security and intelligence ties would continue. The British official also noted that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his British counterpart Andy Burnham have not yet spoken since Burnham took office in late July, despite a significant deterioration in bilateral relations.