Paul Adams: British-Israeli relations at lowest ebb in decades

Israel's furious response to the British government's decision to ban trade with Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank highlights the significance of this moment. Britain took the brunt of Israel's anger, but the coordinated action of 12 countries intensified the outrage. Officials in London anticipated such a shift in policy but were surprised by Israel's swift and intense reaction.

The UK's consulate closure in East Jerusalem, which serves the West Bank and interacts with the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah, and the removal of British representatives from the International Gaza Support Centre, reflect deep Israeli concern. While Israel's exports from settlements may not be substantial, the political symbolism of targeting these products is powerful. For decades, British and other governments have considered settlements illegal but avoided outright bans.

Now, aligning with the 2024 International Court of Justice ruling that occupation is unlawful, Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband announced a ban on settlement products and related companies, extending to restrictions on arms sales contributing to occupation. These measures exceed expectations and include a stark, personal statement from Miliband, a proud British Jew, who described settler terrorism and ethnic cleansing as realities. This policy shift, termed a 'reset' by Miliband, has strained British-Israeli relations to their lowest point in decades.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar’s response was brutal, reflecting widespread outrage among many Israelis, though not all agree with the legality of settlements. Palestinians view the UK's action as progress toward Palestinian statehood, though the occupation's reality persists. The US remains the only power with significant influence over Israel’s policies, and past threats from President George HW Bush to withhold financial support for settlement financing remain relevant.

Recent shifts in US policy, including Christian Zionist support for Israel, complicate the situation further.

Source: BBC