Leading legal experts say sanctions on Israel ‘fall far short’ of UK obligations
Summary
More than 130 legal experts have said that the UK’s new sanctions on Israeli settlements do not fully meet its legal duties. They argue that the UK should take stronger actions against Israel’s occupation of Palestinian land, based on a recent ruling by the international court.Key Facts
- Over 130 legal experts, including 18 senior lawyers called king’s counsel, sent a letter to UK officials about Israeli sanctions.
- The UK recently banned imports from Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories.
- A 2024 advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) said Israel’s occupation is illegal and other countries must not support it.
- The experts stated the UK’s sanctions are too limited compared to sanctions on Russia’s activities in Ukraine.
- They called for a full arms embargo on Israel and wider sanctions covering insurance, finance, and digital services.
- The letter noted ongoing attacks by Israeli settlers and new housing plans that threaten a future Palestinian state.
- UK officials described the sanctions as a major change in policy to support a two-state solution and protect international law.
- One legal expert said the main issue is Israel’s presence in the occupied areas, not just the settlements.
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