BBUK statement on the UK Government's settlement goods sanctions
B'nai B'rith UK views with dismay the Govenrment annoucement of sanctions against Israeli settlement products. It is a policy which will do nothing to move towards peace and co-existence and will further encourage extremist politicians on all sides. The Foreign Secretary has said that the move is necessary to preserve a path to the two state solution. But his speech today placed the overwhelming responsibility for its failed implementation on Israel. This ignores the many times that the Palestinian Authority has rejected a two state compromise, continued their 'pay for slay' policy and incited hatred in their education system. It is true that there are extremist elements within the settler movement that carry out reprehensible acts of lawless violence, and that these people are encouraged by far right ministers. It is right that they are condemned. But this latest measure risks a wider trade ban on Israeli goods, giving succour to antizionists who believe that Israel as a whole is illegitimate. Worse, it will only add fuel to an already insecure enviroment and unprecedented climate of antisemitic hostility that will make British Jews feel even more vulnerable at this time of year..
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Dr Jeremy Havardi
Director, Bureau of International Affairs








