UK halts Israel trade talks, imposes sanctions over violence
The British government is suspending free trade talks with Israel and summoning the ambassador in response to the offensive in the Gaza Strip. London will also impose sanctions on settlers in the West Bank.
What do you need to know?
- Suspension of trade talks: The United Kingdom is halting negotiations on free trade with Israel due to the military actions in the Gaza Strip.
- Sanctions on settlers: London plans to impose sanctions on Israeli settlers for violence in the West Bank.
- Call for humanitarian aid: The British government is calling for an end to the blockade of the Gaza Strip to allow the delivery of humanitarian aid.
Why is the United Kingdom suspending trade talks?
British Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced that the UK government is suspending free trade talks with Israel. This decision is a response to Israel's offensive in the Gaza Strip, which, according to the minister, "is destroying the relationship" between the nations. Lammy emphasised that the offensive is not the correct approach to freeing hostages and called for an end to the blockade inhibiting the delivery of humanitarian aid.
What are the international reactions?
The day before, in a joint statement, leaders of the United Kingdom, France, and Canada expressed their concern over Israel's actions. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, speaking in parliament, expressed shock at the military escalation and announced the coordination of actions with France and Canada. Starmer stressed that it is unacceptable for people in Gaza to suffer from starvation.
What do the sanctions on settlers mean?
London plans to impose sanctions on Israeli settlers for acts of violence in the West Bank. Minister Lammy pointed out that it is the responsibility of the Israeli government to intervene and halt these aggressive behaviours. The sanctions are part of a broader strategy to pressure Israel to amend its approach to the conflict.
