The U.K. and Canada have initiated sanctions against two influential Israeli ministers, signaling a shift in diplomatic relations amidst increasing tensions surrounding the Gaza conflict.
U.K. and Canada Announce Sanctions Against Far-Right Israeli Ministers Amid Gaza Conflict
U.K. and Canada Announce Sanctions Against Far-Right Israeli Ministers Amid Gaza Conflict
The coordinated sanctions signal a significant shift in Western nations' approach towards Israel, reflecting growing concerns over the Gaza humanitarian crisis.
In an unprecedented move, the British and Canadian governments are set to impose sanctions on Israeli security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and finance minister Bezalel Smotrich. This action, anticipated to be mirrored by several other Western allies, marks a notable departure from the traditionally supportive stance of these nations towards Israel.
Scheduled for formal announcement on Tuesday, the sanctions are expected to restrict the travel rights of both ministers and freeze their financial assets within these countries. The impending sanctions come in response to the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by Israel's military operations in Gaza, drawing criticism from among its allies.
Israeli foreign minister Gideon Sa’ar vehemently condemned this decision as “outrageous,” expressing disappointment that elected officials are targeted in this manner. He revealed that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has convened a meeting to discuss an appropriate response to what Israel views as an unacceptable escalation.
The sanctions have been on the radar for several weeks, reflecting an increasing concern voiced by Canada, Britain, and France about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. In a joint statement made last month, these countries warned Israel of possible further actions unless there was a cessation of its military offensives and renewed access to humanitarian aid.
In a recent address in Parliament, Britain’s foreign secretary, David Lammy, did not hold back in criticizing Israel’s actions during the conflict. He condemned comments made by Minister Smotrich regarding the displacement of Gaza’s population as “extremism,” asserting that such views are dangerous and unacceptable.
This development illustrates a significant shift in diplomatic tone towards Israel among some Western powers, raising questions about future relations and potential consequences as the situation in Gaza continues to unfold.
Scheduled for formal announcement on Tuesday, the sanctions are expected to restrict the travel rights of both ministers and freeze their financial assets within these countries. The impending sanctions come in response to the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by Israel's military operations in Gaza, drawing criticism from among its allies.
Israeli foreign minister Gideon Sa’ar vehemently condemned this decision as “outrageous,” expressing disappointment that elected officials are targeted in this manner. He revealed that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has convened a meeting to discuss an appropriate response to what Israel views as an unacceptable escalation.
The sanctions have been on the radar for several weeks, reflecting an increasing concern voiced by Canada, Britain, and France about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. In a joint statement made last month, these countries warned Israel of possible further actions unless there was a cessation of its military offensives and renewed access to humanitarian aid.
In a recent address in Parliament, Britain’s foreign secretary, David Lammy, did not hold back in criticizing Israel’s actions during the conflict. He condemned comments made by Minister Smotrich regarding the displacement of Gaza’s population as “extremism,” asserting that such views are dangerous and unacceptable.
This development illustrates a significant shift in diplomatic tone towards Israel among some Western powers, raising questions about future relations and potential consequences as the situation in Gaza continues to unfold.
