UK, Canada, France Sanction Israeli Settlements

The United Kingdom, joined by Canada and France, announced new actions against Israeli settlements in the West Bank this week. The measures include suspending weapon export licenses and banning imports of settlement goods. This move marks a significant shift from previous empty condemnations to tangible consequences for ongoing illegal occupation activities.

UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband described Israeli actions in the West Bank as ethnic cleansing. He bolstered accusations of war crimes while explaining the sanctions to the House of Commons. This rhetoric supports the International Court of Justice decision declaring the occupation illegal. It represents a notable departure from traditional diplomatic language used by major allies.

The sanctions target private companies providing financial services that enable settlement expansion. This scope widens potential influence beyond individual settlers to corporate enablers. However, the measures will not take effect for six to nine months. Legal challenges from Israel and its supporters are expected to maximize delays during this interim period.

Miliband explicitly stated the regime targets settlements, not the state of Israel. He affirmed continued support for trade with green line Israel. Consequently, components for F-35 fighter jets were excluded from the weapons ban. Critics argue this selective approach ignores the integral role of the state in supporting and expanding settlement enterprises.

Settlement exports constitute a tiny fraction of total trade between the UK and Israel. Records show only eight million dollars in imports from Palestine last year. Evasion of labeling regulations makes policing these goods difficult. Many firms operating in settlements are parts of larger Israeli companies, complicating efforts to isolate specific economic activities effectively.

The announcement responds to Israeli plans for construction in the E-1 corridor. This project threatens to bisect the West Bank and undermine the two-state solution. While the US remains relatively quiet, pressure may fade if Israel halts construction. Activists urge sustained push for broader sanctions targeting the state directly for lasting impact.