Israel Condemns UK Sanctions on Government Ministers
Israel strongly criticized the United Kingdom for imposing sanctions on two of its ministers, accusing them of “inciting violence” against Palestinians. Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich will face travel bans and asset freezes as part of the UK’s measures.
Israeli Officials’ Response to Sanctions
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar described the sanctions as “outrageous.” Both Ben-Gvir and Smotrich are members of right-wing parties that support Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s fragile coalition government. Their hardline positions on the Gaza conflict have drawn widespread criticism.
Controversial Actions and Statements by the Ministers
Smotrich has opposed humanitarian aid to Gaza and advocates for expanding Israeli settlements in the West Bank, which are deemed illegal under international law. Last month, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy condemned Smotrich’s remarks about Israeli forces “cleansing” Gaza as “monstrous.”
Upon learning about the sanctions, Smotrich, who was inaugurating a new settlement in the West Bank, vowed, “We are determined to continue building.”
Ben-Gvir has called for the resettlement of Gazans elsewhere and controversially suggested replacing Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque with a synagogue. Earlier this year, he stated that Gaza had sufficient resources and criticized the resumption of aid deliveries as a “serious and grave mistake.”
Ministers’ Reaction to Sanctions and Wider Context
Ben-Gvir responded to the sanctions by accusing European countries of outdated colonial attitudes and warning of rising radical Islam in their cities. He invoked historical resilience by saying, “We overcame Pharaoh, we’ll overcome Starmer’s Wall.”
The sanctions, also imposed by Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Norway, represent a notable divergence from the United States’ position.
UK Government’s Justification and Position
Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated the ministers have incited violence and supported egregious human rights abuses against Palestinians over an extended period. In a joint statement with foreign ministers from the other countries, Lammy emphasized holding those responsible accountable for their actions.
Downing Street clarified that the sanctions apply to Ben-Gvir and Smotrich in their personal capacities and stressed that their views do not represent all Israelis or official government policy. A No. 10 spokesperson referenced the Israeli ambassador’s remarks that the ministers’ statements do not reflect government positions.
Israel’s Planned Response and UK Political Reactions
Israel’s Foreign Ministry announced that a “special government meeting” will be held early next week to discuss the appropriate response to the sanctions.
Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel urged the UK government to use its influence to secure the release of remaining hostages, ensure continued humanitarian aid, and work toward a sustainable resolution of the conflict.
