The UK is working on a plan to restrict economic ties with settlements in the occupied West Bank. The measures are expected to cover trade in goods and certain services from these areas, as well as the financing and advertising of such activities.
UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband is expected to announce a “comprehensive change” in relations with Israel. The plan aims to halt the expansion of settlements in the West Bank and preserve the prospect of a two-state solution leading to the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state.
E1 project accelerates policy shift
Assessments in the British press indicate that London’s policy shift gained momentum after progress on the E1 project, which is expected to separate the northern and southern parts of the occupied West Bank.
Miliband described the expansion of settlements as “an unacceptable and destructive act.” The statement signals that the UK is preparing to take a more active stance against Israel’s settlement policy.
Message on Gaza follows recognition of Palestine
The UK formally recognized the State of Palestine in September 2025. This brought the number of United Nations member states recognizing Palestine to more than 140.
Miliband is expected to use tougher language than previous governments on the humanitarian situation in Gaza. The statement is expected to say that the Israeli army has imposed unnecessary checks on aid entering Gaza on security grounds.
London keeps The Hague option open
London continues to consider joining the legal proceedings initiated by South Africa at the International Court of Justice in The Hague. However, the planned package is not expected to use the term “genocide.”
Prime Minister Andy Burnham also condemned the expansion of settlements and said that “comprehensive measures” would be announced shortly.
United Nations data
According to United Nations data, the number of attacks carried out by Israeli settlers in the occupied territory in 2026 that resulted in loss of life or property damage exceeded 1,400. This was described as the highest level recorded in the area to date.
Approximately 750,000 Israeli settlers live in 516 settlements and outposts in the occupied territory. Efforts to remove Palestinians from their lands continue almost every day.
