UK moves to sanction Israeli settlements as PM Burnham risks clash with Trump: report

The United Kingdom is preparing to announce trade restrictions targeting Israeli settlements in the West Bank, a move that has drawn immediate criticism from U.S. and Israeli officials. Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s government is expected to implement an embargo on goods and services linked to settlements, signaling a firmer stance on the conflict. The announcement comes after Burnham spoke with President Trump, emphasizing the importance of a two-state solution.

• The UK is expected to announce restrictions on trade with Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
• The measures will likely include an embargo on goods and services involving West Bank settlements.
• This move represents an escalation in the UK’s pressure on Israel under Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
• The announcement follows a phone call between Burnham and President Trump, where the two-state solution was discussed.
• Israeli officials, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, have strongly condemned the planned restrictions.
• U.S. lawmakers have also warned of potential implications, such as implicating Florida’s anti-boycott law.
• Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband is expected to formally unveil the measures, which are a response to Israeli settlement expansion, including the E1 project.