LONDON, Sept. 9, 2026: Britain has announced plans to ban imports of goods produced in Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, marking a significant shift in its policy toward Israel’s settlement activities. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband said the measures were aimed at opposing settlement expansion and protecting the prospects for a two-state solution.
Under the proposed sanctions regime, Britain will prohibit imports from Israeli settlements and take action against companies and individuals involved in financing, construction, infrastructure, real estate and other services linked to settlement expansion. London also plans to prohibit the advertising and promotion of property in the settlements. The new legislation is expected to come into force within six to nine months.
The British government said it considers Israel’s continuing occupation of Palestinian territory unlawful and argued that expanding settlements are undermining the possibility of establishing a viable Palestinian state. Britain has also imposed immediate sanctions on five individuals accused of supporting or inciting violence against Palestinians, bringing the number of people sanctioned over settler activity to 38.
The measures were announced alongside similar moves by France and Canada. Israel has strongly opposed the decision and announced retaliatory steps, including plans to close the British consulate in East Jerusalem and restrict the entry of several British officials. The latest measures have further strained relations between Britain and Israel as Western governments increase pressure over settlement expansion and the future of the two-state solution.
