Denouncing ‘ethnic cleansing’ in West Bank, UK announces trade ban with settlements

Twelve Western nations have voiced their backing for proposed European measures aimed at curbing trade with Israeli settlements in the West Bank's occupied territories. These nations, including Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Iceland, Ireland, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, outlined in a joint statement their consideration of domestic restrictions or support for European trade limitations on goods stemming from settlements deemed unlawful under international law.

The declaration came in response to UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband's announcement of measures targeting Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The 12 countries emphasized their commitment to a two-state solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, urged the cessation of settlement expansions and the removal of extended civilian administrative powers in the occupied region, and called upon Israel to address settler violence and investigate allegations of misconduct by Israeli forces.

Despite acknowledging Israel's security concerns and remaining dedicated to combating antisemitism, these countries underscored their stance in favor of the proposed European restrictions on trade with illegal settlements.