Nearly 30 Labour MPs are pushing for the UK government to impose sanctions on Israeli settlers. The group of 28 MPs and eight Lords have signed a letter endorsed by 63 parliamentarians calling for action against Israeli settlers. They are demanding that the government impose a total arms embargo on Israel, as well as travel bans and asset freezes for individuals and entities involved in the illegal occupation of Palestinian territories.
This call for sanctions comes in the wake of international arrest warrants issued for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former defense minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas military wing leader Mohammed Deif. The International Court of Justice also recently ruled that Israel’s occupation of territories, including East Jerusalem, is illegal.
The letter was organized by Richard Burgon and Imran Hussain, both of whom are currently suspended from the Labour party for voting to scrap the two-child benefit cap. It was signed by Labour MPs, as well as members of other parties such as the SNP, Sinn Fein, and the Independent Alliance of pro-Palestine MPs, including Jeremy Corbyn.
Burgon emphasized the importance of holding Israel accountable for its actions, stating that words alone are not enough. He believes that the UK government has a legal and moral obligation to impose sanctions in order to put an end to Israel’s war crimes and violations of international law. Similarly, Hussain stressed the significance of imposing sanctions in defense of the international rules-based order and sending a clear message that Israel cannot continue to disregard international law.
The MPs are specifically calling for the UK government to revoke the 2030 roadmap outlining Britain’s economic and security ties with Israel. They argue that strong action must be taken to ensure that Israel faces consequences for its actions.
In conclusion, the push for sanctions on Israeli settlers by Labour MPs highlights the growing international concern over Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories. The call for sanctions is seen as a necessary step to hold Israel accountable for its actions and uphold international law. By taking a strong stance against Israel’s violations, the UK government can send a message that such behavior will no longer be tolerated on the international stage.
