UK plans trade restrictions on Israeli settlement-linked activity
The proposed measures would target goods and investment tied to settlements in the occupied West Bank, while diplomatic relations and some military cooperation continue.
The United Kingdom is expected to announce trade restrictions on goods and investment linked to Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, as the government adopts a more critical public position towards Israel.
Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband told the House of Commons that the UK would set out a “comprehensive set of measures” to prevent involvement in projects including E1, a proposed settlement corridor linking Ma’ale Adumim with occupied East Jerusalem that could divide the West Bank.
The scope, timing and implementation of the restrictions have not been confirmed. It remains unclear whether they would cover all settlement-linked goods and investment, or apply in both directions.
The UK joined 21 countries and the European Commission last month in condemning the E1 project. Under former prime minister Keir Starmer, Britain also joined France and Canada in sanctioning six entities and one individual over settler violence in the occupied West Bank.
The policy shift has not ended cooperation between the two countries. The UK continues diplomatic relations with Israel and supplies F-35 parts through a global pool programme accessible to Israel, despite suspending some arms-export licences.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has warned that Israel would “act against Britain” if sanctions proceed. Analysts cited by Al Jazeera have characterised the change as greater continuity in rhetoric and policy than a complete rupture in the UK’s relationship with Israel.
