UK Expands Sanctions Powers, Targeting Israeli Construction and Finance
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
The United Kingdom has expanded its sanctions powers, potentially targeting Israeli construction firms, banks, and entrepreneurs involved in human rights violations and international law breaches. The new regulations come as Israel advances construction in the sensitive E1 area, a move Britain opposes. These measures, which can include asset freezes and travel bans, aim to deter involvement in settlements and other activities deemed violations of international law. While the regulations are now in effect, no specific sanctions related to the E1 project have been announced yet.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Britain has expanded its sanctions powers to potentially target Israeli construction companies, banks, and entrepreneurs.
- The new regulations allow for asset freezes, financial restrictions, and travel bans for those involved in severe international law violations.
- The timing is significant due to ongoing construction bids in the E1 area, which Britain opposes.
- British MPs and organizations have been pressuring financial institutions against funding settlement construction.
- The expanded sanctions regime also covers issues like blocking humanitarian aid and unlawful detentions.
- While the regulations are in effect, no new sanctions have been announced against entities involved in the E1 project.
The United Kingdom has expanded its sanctions regime, potentially targeting Israeli construction companies, banks, and entrepreneurs. New regulations broaden the scope of British sanctions related to human rights and international humanitarian law, allowing for measures against those involved in or financing severe violations of international law. These measures can include asset freezes, financial restrictions, travel bans to the UK, and disqualification from directorships.
The timing of these regulations is particularly significant given the advancement of construction in the E1 area, a sensitive zone between Jerusalem and Ma'ale Adumim. A tender for 1,234 housing units in E1, part of a larger plan for approximately 3,400 units, was set to close for bids on October 19, though the review of proposals was postponed until after November 19. Britain opposes this construction, arguing it would disrupt the territorial contiguity needed for a Palestinian state. Israel views the construction as part of settlement expansion and a strengthening of the Jerusalem-Ma'ale Adumim corridor, rejecting international objections.
British political figures and organizations opposing settlement construction have been increasing pressure on financial entities that might participate in the E1 project. Members of Parliament previously warned banks and financial institutions about the risks of financing this construction, and the Britain Palestine Project organization cautioned companies and contractors about jeopardizing international business ties. These efforts aim to deter participation even before winners are selected and construction begins.
The new regulations also apply to non-settlement related issues, such as blocking humanitarian aid and severe violations of personal liberty, including unlawful detentions. Additionally, a mechanism allows the UK to temporarily adopt sanctions imposed by partner countries while considering its own independent measures. This move is part of a broader UK plan announced in September, which includes a future ban on imports from settlements and restrictions on related commercial activities.
While the regulations have taken effect, no new sanctions have yet been announced against entities involved in the E1 construction. The move follows recent understandings between Israel and the UK regarding the British Consulate in East Jerusalem, where Israel had reduced the British diplomatic presence. Despite political disagreements, security and intelligence cooperation between the UK and Israel reportedly continues.
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