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UK-US trade warning over settlements
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
UK plans to ban trade with West Bank settlements. US lawmaker threatens Florida business restrictions for UK firms.
Background
The UK government, led by Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband, is preparing to announce a ban on trade with Israeli settlements in the West Bank, which are considered illegal under international law. This move is part of a broader policy reset on Israel and is expected to face strong opposition from the US and Israel.
How it unfolded
- Jul 2024International Court of Justice rules Israeli settlements unlawful under international law.
- Jul 2026Stephen Doughty, then Europe minister, tells business select committee that existing powers to impose restrictions on settlements do not go far enough.
- Sep 1, 2026Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband addresses Parliament, calling settlements 'illegal under international law' and announcing a 'comprehensive reset' of UK policy on Israel.
- Sep 4, 2026British Jewish groups lobby Prime Minister Burnham, warning of 'perverse consequences' of the trade ban.
- Sep 8, 2026UK is expected to announce the ban on trade with West Bank settlements; US lawmaker Randy Fine threatens Florida business restrictions for UK firms.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband says settlements are 'illegal under international law' and part of a 'comprehensive reset' of policy.
- Caution
- British Jewish groups warn of 'perverse consequences' and potential damage to UK-Israel relations, urging Burnham to abandon the plan.
- Bulls
- US Congressman Randy Fine threatens that British firms could lose billions under Florida's anti-boycott law if they comply with the UK ban.
Still unverified
Reports that the UK will announce the ban on Tuesday are based on anonymous sources and have not been officially confirmed.