The Guardian view on Britain’s new Middle East policy: an unlawful occupation must carry a price
Ed Miliband has delivered Britain’s toughest indictment of Israeli conduct in Palestinian lands - and rightly says this has economic consequences
TL;DR
- Britain is leading a 12-country coalition to impose economic restrictions on Israel's illegal settlements.
- The UK, France, and Canada have committed to national trade bans.
- Ed Miliband declared the occupation of Palestinian territories unlawful and accused Israeli government members of supporting forced displacement.
- Actions will be taken against entities providing construction, infrastructure, and financing services to settlements.
- Arms sales contributing to the occupation will be refused licenses.
- The UK is signaling it recognizes Israel's threats while opposing illegal actions.
- The US administration's reaction is anticipated, with some US states potentially imposing penalties.
- Israel responded by closing the UK consulate in Jerusalem.