UK Slaps Sanctions on Israeli Ministers Did They Go Too Far?

UK Sanctions Far-Right Israeli Ministers for 'Inciting Violence' Against Palestinians

In a move that has reverberated across the international stage, the United Kingdom has imposed sanctions on two far-right Israeli ministers, citing their "repeated incitements of violence against Palestinian communities" in the occupied West Bank. The decision, announced by the Foreign Secretary, targets Itamar Ben-Gvir, the National Security Minister, and Bezalel Smotrich, the Finance Minister, both key figures in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing coalition.

The sanctions entail a ban on Ben-Gvir and Smotrich entering the UK, and a freeze on any assets they may hold within the country. This action is part of a coordinated effort with Australia, Norway, Canada, and New Zealand, signaling a growing international concern over the escalating tensions in the region.

Israel's Response and International Reactions

The Israeli government has reacted strongly, calling the sanctions "outrageous" and criticizing the targeting of elected officials and government members. However, the move has also garnered support from some quarters concerned about human rights.

Notably, U.S. figures like Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the sanctions, arguing they undermine efforts to achieve a ceasefire, secure the release of hostages, and end the conflict. He urged a reversal of the sanctions, reaffirming U.S. support for Israel.

Key Reasons for the Sanctions

• Incitement of Violence: David Lammy, stated that Smotrich and Ben-Gvir had "incited extremist violence and serious abuses of Palestinian human rights."
• Stance on Gaza: Both ministers have been criticized for opposing aid to Gaza and advocating for the resettlement of Palestinians outside the territory.
• Settler Violence: The Foreign Office highlighted the escalating violence by extremist Israeli settlers against Palestinian communities in the West Bank.

The UK Foreign Office emphasized that these sanctions are part of a broader international response to address the ongoing violence and the undermining of a future Palestinian state.

What the UK Hopes to Achieve

Following the announcement, David Lammy articulated the UK's objectives:

• An immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
• The immediate release of hostages held by Hamas.
• A surge in humanitarian aid to the region.
• A path towards a two-state solution.

Growing Tensions and Previous Warnings

The decision to sanction the ministers follows a period of increasing tensions between the UK and Israel. The UK, along with France and Canada, has previously denounced Israeli actions in Gaza. Furthermore, trade talks between the UK and Israel have been suspended.

Smotrich's Defiant Response

In response to the sanctions, Bezalel Smotrich expressed "contempt" for the UK's move, vowing to continue building settlements in the West Bank. His remarks alluded to the period when Britain governed Palestine and imposed restrictions on Jewish immigration.

Timeline of UK-Israel Tensions

Recent months have seen a series of escalating tensions:

• May 19: UK, France, and Canada denounce expanded Israeli offensive on Gaza.
• May 20: UK suspends free trade talks with Israel, sanctions settlers, and summons Israel's ambassador.
• June 10: UK sanctions Israeli ministers Smotrich and Ben-Gvir.

The Bigger Picture

The UK's sanctions against Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich represent a significant escalation in diplomatic pressure on Israel. The move reflects growing international concern over violence in the West Bank and the humanitarian situation in Gaza. While the impact of these sanctions remains to be seen, they underscore the urgency of addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and seeking a peaceful resolution that upholds international law and human rights.

This decision highlights the complex and evolving dynamics of international relations in the Middle East, and the continued efforts to hold actors accountable for actions that exacerbate conflict and undermine peace.

Tags: UK sanctions, Israeli ministers, Palestinian violence, West Bank, Itamar Ben-Gvir, Bezalel Smotrich, Right-wing ministers, UK ban, Asset freeze, Israel

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8xgk1ek19lo