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UK defends Israel sanctions after being told to close consulate
cnbc.com • • world
Key Points:
- The U.K. has imposed sanctions banning imports from Israeli settlements in the West Bank, with Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband stating the occupation is unlawful and expressing concern over the impact on the two-state solution.
- Israel condemned the sanctions, accusing Britain of working against it, banning 12 U.K. lawmakers from entering Israel, and ordering the closure of the British consulate in east Jerusalem within 30 days.
- Miliband defended the sanctions as necessary to address the intimidation and displacement of Palestinians by settlers, emphasizing the U.K.'s unwillingness to remain passive amid ongoing tensions.
- U.S. officials warned of potential business repercussions for British companies but clarified that the Trump administration would not mirror the U.K.'s sanctions, stressing a preference for regional stability and ongoing peace efforts.
- U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted the White House was informed ahead of the U.K.'s decision and highlighted concerns about escalating violence and instability in the West Bank.
