12 Countries Ban Trade With Israeli Settlements in West Bank, Straining UK-Israel Ties
Summary
Britain, France, Spain and Canada are among 12 countries banning trade in products made in Israeli settlements in the West Bank, escalating tensions with Israel. Israel is responding by closing the British consulate in East Jerusalem and removing British representatives from a Gaza coordination center.
Key Points
- Britain and 11 other countries have banned trade in products from Israeli settlements in the West Bank, marking a major economic step against settlement activity.
- Israel has condemned the move and said it will close the British consulate in East Jerusalem and cut British participation in a Gaza coordination body.
- British Foreign Minister Ed Miliband said the policy is broader than product bans and also targets companies involved in settlement construction, infrastructure and finance.
- Palestinian officials welcomed the decision, while analysts say the United States could ultimately have the greatest influence on Israel's settlement policy.
