Paul Adams: British-Israeli relations at lowest ebb in decades
Summary
The British government has banned trade with Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, following the International Court of Justice's ruling that the Israeli occupation is unlawful. This move led to a strong and angry response from Israel, including closing the UK's consulate in East Jerusalem and removing British officials from an international aid group in Gaza.Key Facts
- Britain and 11 other countries, including France, Spain, and Canada, have banned trade with Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
- The ban targets products made in settlements and companies involved in settlement construction, infrastructure, or financing.
- The UK government sees the entire Israeli occupation, including military presence, as unlawful according to a 2024 court ruling.
- Israel responded by shutting down the UK consulate in East Jerusalem and removing British staff from the International Gaza Support Centre.
- British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband, who is Jewish and supports Israel, criticized settler violence and accused Israel of ignoring "ethnic cleansing" of Palestinians.
- The new UK policy marks a significant shift and worsens British-Israeli relations to their lowest point in decades.
- Some Israelis view the settlers’ violent actions as a problem but do not agree the settlements are illegal.
- The situation is politically sensitive amid upcoming Israeli elections.
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