UK to ‘reset policy’ on West Bank settlements, Miliband tells parliament
Miliband spoke during his first question-and-answer session with lawmakers since he and the government he represents were sworn into office in July.
British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband announced a comprehensive package of sanctions to curb Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank. Speaking in the House of Commons, Miliband emphasized the need for a "comprehensive reset" of UK policy towards the region. He outlined measures to ban goods produced in settlements and impose targeted sanctions on British entities and individuals.
Miliband also hinted at the possibility of trade restrictions, stating that the UK would no longer finance, construct, or advertise new settlements. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar threatened Israeli retaliation if the UK took action against its country. The tensions between the two nations have increased following Israeli military operations in Gaza and the West Bank since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack.
Israel's right to build in Area C of the West Bank, which is under Israeli control, has been a contentious issue. The UK has historically supported a two-state solution, but the situation may worsen if Netanyahu's right-wing government forms after the upcoming election.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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