Britain is facing potential reprisals from the US and Israel as Prime Minister Andy Burnham prepares to announce sanctions on West Bank settlements. A package of measures banning imports from the disputed areas is expected to be revealed later today, despite significant backlash. Burnham informed US President Donald Trump of his plans during a call last night, with the UK government anticipating a public response from the president. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband is scheduled to address questions in the House of Commons regarding the policy.
The proposal has sparked controversy, with US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee labeling it as 'Jew hate' and 'discrimination.' Florida Congressman Randy Fine has warned that the state could enact a law banning UK imports in retaliation. An Israeli minister has suggested that Israel might support Argentina's claim over the Falklands, while security experts have indicated that access to critical intelligence could be impacted.
Concerns regarding Israeli settlements have been escalating for years, particularly following Israel's recent decision to issue tenders for 1,200 homes east of Jerusalem, which would further divide the West Bank. Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden emphasized Israel's importance as a UK ally, asserting that the measures would be targeted and would not constitute a de facto ban on trade with Israel.
Burnham has not communicated with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu since taking office in July. Labour Party activists have been pressing for a stronger stance on Israel after losing votes to the Greens and pro-Gaza independents. Approximately 160 settlements have been established by Israel since its occupation of the West Bank in 1967, with around 700,000 residents.
Miliband, who is Jewish, previously stated that the settlement expansion plan 'crosses a red line' and is 'illegal under international law,' arguing that it jeopardizes the viability of a Palestinian state. He expressed Labour's desire for a 'comprehensive reset' of relations with Israel. Burnham reiterated his commitment to a two-state solution during his call with Trump.
Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's Minister of National Security, referred to the Falklands by their Argentinian name, stating that Israel should recognize Argentina's sovereignty over the islands. Argentine President Javier Milei has reiterated the country's claim to the territory, which it attempted to reclaim during the 1982 Falklands War, and has announced sanctions on oil exploration around the islands.
Britain maintains that the sovereignty of the Falklands is not in question, as demonstrated by a 2013 referendum in which 99.8% of islanders voted to remain British. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has called for the expulsion of the British ambassador, asserting that the UK government is acting in an antisemitic manner.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog urged Britain to prioritize dialogue over sanctions, warning that such actions could lead to significant miscalculations. Huckabee noted that 25% of pharmaceuticals used in the UK are produced in Israel, questioning whether the UK is willing to forgo these supplies. McFadden dismissed accusations of the UK engaging in 'Jew hate,' emphasizing the importance of maintaining the possibility of a two-state solution.
Shadow Foreign Secretary Tom Tugendhat cautioned that the sanctions could jeopardize security cooperation that has been credited with saving British lives. He urged ministers to prioritize national interests and security, emphasizing the need to work with allies who provide intelligence for safety. The specifics of how the sanctions will be implemented are expected to be detailed by the Foreign Secretary in Parliament later today.