Fury has erupted over Labor Party plans to impose selective sanctions on Israeli settlements in the West Bank, with critics blasting the proposals. Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said this follows the government’s confirmation of “targeted” sanctions that were not intended to “boycott all Israeli goods”.
But the move sparked anger across the pond, with US Ambassador to Israel Mick Huckabee saying: “I don’t know if they really understand the consequences and how it will affect the British people.” For example, 25% of pharmaceuticals used in the UK are produced in Israel. Are they ready to give them up? Looks like they are.”
He added: “[…] I know that there are a number of states. Let me mention one of the largest states in the US, Florida, which has a law that if this action is taken, Britons will not be able to do business with any company or business in Florida.”
Further outrage came from Nigel Tobias, chief executive of the British Israel Chamber of Commerce, who said: “I do not condone any illegal settler activity against Palestinians, but sanctions on trade with Israeli companies in the West Bank are likely to hinder rather than help the achievement of a peaceful two-state solution.
“The unintended consequences of these sanctions will likely cause financial hardship for Palestinians who work for Israeli companies and coexist with their Israeli work colleagues.
“It could also harm people in the UK and UK companies if the Israeli government responds – as if intimidated – by retaliating.
“Sanctions will further encourage and encourage anti-Semitic attacks against British Jews at a time when they are already at record levels.”
Sir William Shawcross of the British Israel Alliance called it “a terrible mistake by a weak government that ignores Britain’s national interests.”
He added that Ed Miliband was “undermining a vital relationship with the only democracy in the Middle East that makes this country so much safer”, calling it a “reckless anti-Israel stunt”.
Political leaders also issued a statement from Richard Tice, the Reform MP, who said: “Labour’s desperation to win back far-left and Islamist voters from the Greens is stupidly self-defeating.
“Ed Miliband’s kamikaze mission to undermine one of our most important security and economic partners is student politics at its most destructive.
“It also gives Jew haters license to be even more anti-Semitic.”