British-Israeli Relations at Lowest Ebb in Decades
Paul Adams: A Major Shift in Policy
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Figure caption: Watch: There is ethnic cleansing in areas of the West Bank, says Miliband
By Paul Adams, Diplomatic Correspondent
Published 11 minutes ago
Israel’s furious response to the British government’s decision to ban trade with Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank testifies to just how important this moment is. Britain took the brunt of Israel’s anger, but the fact that 12 countries chose to move together clearly sharpened the sense of outrage.
Officials in London always knew such a shift would elicit a hostile response, but they were taken aback by the speed and ferocity of Israel’s reaction. The closure of the UK’s consulate in East Jerusalem, which serves the West Bank, and the removal of British representatives from the International Gaza Support Centre are highly aggressive moves.
They signal that Israel is deeply troubled by Tuesday’s action by the UK and 11 other countries, including France, Spain, and Canada. While products manufactured in settlements may not represent a significant export share, singling them out for special treatment carries strong political symbolism.
For decades, governments have regarded settlements as illegal but stopped short of banning their products. Now, with the UK agreeing with the 2024 International Court of Justice ruling that the occupation is unlawful, Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband has taken a stand. He announced a ban on products and companies supporting settlements, including those involved in construction, infrastructure, or finance. The measures also restrict arms sales contributing to the occupation.
Miliband’s heartfelt and personal statement stands out. As a "proud British Jew… unwavering in my support for the state of Israel," he spoke directly about "settler terrorism" and its role in the "ethnic cleansing" of Palestinians, accusing the Israeli government of turning a blind eye.
Miliband calls this a "reset" in policy, but it feels like a radical rethink, leaving British-Israeli relations at their lowest ebb for decades.
