UK sanctions ‘settler grandmother’ Daniella Weiss, West Bank violence network
The British government has sanctioned prominent individuals involved in Israel’s illegal settler movement in the occupied West Bank, as well as construction companies active in the besieged region.
A statement issued by London on 20 May reads, “In response to the persistent cycle of serious violence undertaken by extremist Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank, the foreign secretary has announced new sanctions today.”
“Today’s measures target three individuals, including prominent settler leader Daniella Weiss, as well as two illegal outposts and two organisations that have supported, incited, and promoted violence against Palestinian communities in the West Bank,” the document adds.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy also announced the suspension of free trade deal negotiations with Israel and revealed that the Israeli ambassador was summoned over the ongoing invasion and blockade of Gaza.
READ ALSO: Britain, Canada, France move to sanction Israel over attacks in Gaza
“While the UK government remains committed to the existing trade agreement in force, it is not possible to advance discussions on a new, upgraded FTA with a Netanyahu government that is pursuing egregious policies in the West Bank and Gaza,” Lammy said.
Responding, the Israeli Foreign Ministry said, “The British Mandate ended exactly 77 years ago. External pressure will not divert Israel from its path in defending its existence and security against enemies who seek its destruction.”
Recall that on Monday, the UK joined France and Canada in threatening “concrete actions” if Israel does not halt the military invasion of Gaza and lift its blockade on humanitarian aid shipments.
“We are horrified by the escalation from Israel … We reiterate our call for a ceasefire as the only way to release the hostages,” British Prime Minister Keir Starmer told the House of Commons on Tuesday, adding, “This war has gone on too long. We cannot allow the people of Gaza to starve.
Starmer’s comments come less than two weeks after an investigation revealed that British arms manufacturers have exported thousands of military goods and weapons to Israel despite a partial suspension of arms export licenses imposed by the Labour government last year.
In December, London gave former Israeli army chief of staff Herzl Halevi diplomatic immunity to allow him to visit the UK for secret meetings without the risk of being arrested for war crimes charges.
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