STORY
Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband has announced what he described as a comprehensive reset of British policy towards Israeli settlement activity in the occupied West Bank. In his first Commons appearance in the role, Miliband said the Government would examine measures intended to prevent British companies from financing, constructing or promoting new settlements.
The announcement follows Israeli tenders connected to the E1 development, under which thousands of homes are planned between East Jerusalem and Ma’ale Adumim. The UK joined 20 other countries and the European Union in warning that the project would divide the West Bank and further undermine the prospects for a viable Palestinian state.
Miliband said ministers were examining Britain’s wider economic relationship with the occupied territories. Options under consideration include further sanctions and restrictions on trade connected to settlements. Israel’s foreign minister, Gideon Sa’ar, has warned that Israel could respond if Britain introduces punitive measures.