Andy Burnham’s Government has today announced a ban on trade with Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank – perhaps its most significant foreign policy intervention since taking office. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband presented the move as an attempt to protect the prospect of a two-state solution, but it has already provoked threats of retaliation from Israel and drawn criticism from US politicians.
Supporters argue that Britain should not trade with settlements considered illegal under international law. Critics say the ban will do little for Palestinians, while damaging Britain’s relations internationally. Others see domestic politics at work, as Labour attempts to win back voters drifting towards the Greens.
So is the ban a principled attempt to restrain Israel – or an ineffective gesture driven by Labour’s electoral fears?
Our writers, Patrick Cockburn, The i Paper’s special correspondent, broadcaster Jonathan Sacerdoti, Paul Wood, former BBC foreign correspondent, and Kitty Donaldson, The i Paper’s chief political commentator, offer their perspectives.
Patrick Cockburn: The West Bank’s suffering makes sanctions a moral necessity
