London hits Israeli settlers with sanctions, Tel Aviv warns of closure of British consulate

The British government has announced strong measures against Israeli settlers in the West Bank, including a ban on imports of products manufactured in these areas.

Speaking in the House of Commons, British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband said that London considers Israeli settlements in Palestinian territory illegal under international law. He clarified that the measures would not affect trade alone, as sanctions would also be imposed on individuals and entities that finance or support the establishment of new settlements. The import ban is expected to be implemented within six to nine months.

“Our government has weighed the costs of taking these measures, but we cannot stand aside simply because we fear the Israeli reaction. Many people in Britain have been deeply affected by the suffering of the Palestinian people and are demanding that the executive respond to what is happening,” said Ed Miliband, Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom.

According to Miliband, evidence gathered on the ground shows that Palestinians in the West Bank are being “intimidated, harassed and threatened with being driven from their homes by these terrorist settlers.” He expressed concern that the Israeli government was “turning a blind eye” to the forced displacement of Palestinians. The British foreign secretary stressed that this situation must be publicly condemned and that London could not remain “silent or passive.”

Israeli President Isaac Herzog condemned the decision by the United Kingdom, describing it as a “serious error of judgment.” He also accused London of interfering in Israel’s domestic politics at a time when the country is approaching its next elections.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar announced that Israel would close the British consulate in Jerusalem. In addition, the Israeli authorities have barred 12 British politicians and activists from entering the country, including former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn.