The United Kingdom, Canada, and several other allied nations announced significant sanctions on Tuesday against two hardline Israeli government ministers, Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich. This decision comes in response to their continuous “inciting violence against Palestinians” amidst increasing Western condemnation of Israel's actions in the occupied West Bank and Gaza.
The sanctions, as reported by the UK government, include a travel ban and an asset freeze on both Ben Gvir and Smotrich. These ministers are prominent figures in far-right political parties that play a crucial role in supporting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s fragile coalition government. Their inflammatory rhetoric regarding the occupied territories has drawn substantial criticism, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The sanctions are a collaborative effort by Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, and the UK, as stated in a joint declaration by the foreign ministers of these nations. The statement emphasized their commitment to a two-state solution, which they view as essential for ensuring security and dignity for both Israelis and Palestinians, as well as for achieving long-term stability in the region. However, they noted that this solution is threatened by “extremist settler violence and settlement expansion.”
In their statement, the allied nations expressed grave concerns about Ben Gvir and Smotrich, stating, “They have incited extremist violence and serious abuses of Palestinian human rights.” The rhetoric advocating for the forced displacement of Palestinians and the establishment of new Israeli settlements was described as “appalling and dangerous.” The statement also highlighted the ongoing violence and the impunity with which perpetrators act, despite extensive discussions with the Israeli government on these issues.
This move marks a significant shift in policy among Western nations, particularly in contrast to the stance of the United States. While European and Commonwealth allies have intensified pressure on Israel's government, the Trump administration had consistently reaffirmed its alliance with Israel. Recently, the US called for an end to the Gaza conflict but vetoed a UN Security Council resolution that sought a permanent ceasefire.
Both Ben Gvir and Smotrich reacted defiantly to the sanctions, pledging to persist with their political agendas. Ben Gvir, the leader of the Jewish Power party, stated, “The sanctions do not scare me,” asserting his commitment to act in the interests of Israel and its people. Smotrich, who inaugurated a new Jewish settlement in the occupied West Bank, remarked on the timing of the sanctions, suggesting that they reflect Britain's historical attempts to restrict Jewish settlement.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar condemned the sanctions, labeling them “unacceptable” and indicating that a “special meeting” would be convened to determine the government’s response. Saar expressed outrage over the sanctions imposed on elected representatives and government members.
In their joint statement, the foreign ministers from the allied nations reiterated their unwavering support for Israel’s security, condemning the horrific terror attacks carried out by Hamas on October 7. They affirmed that the measures taken on Tuesday are targeted specifically at individuals deemed to undermine Israel’s security and international standing.
Ben Gvir and Smotrich both reside in settlements located in the West Bank, areas that Palestinians and a significant portion of the international community consider integral to a future Palestinian state. The ministers have previously made controversial statements regarding their intentions for Gaza, with Ben Gvir advocating for the expulsion of Palestinians and Smotrich calling for the formal annexation of settlements.
As tensions continue to escalate, the recent sanctions exemplify the growing international scrutiny of Israel's policies regarding the occupied territories and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The situation remains fluid as the Israeli government deliberates on its next steps in response to this unprecedented action by allied nations.
