Beyond Settler Sanctions: Britain Must Target Israel's State Policy

Israeli forces recently blocked a road leading to a Palestinian olive grove in Deir Jarir, West Bank, declaring it a closed military zone. This incident, occurring on October 21, 2026, highlights the daily realities faced by Palestinians under occupation. A recent attempt by the author, two British parliamentarians, and an international delegation to enter the West Bank resulted in an eight-hour interrogation and detention by Israeli forces, ultimately preventing their crossing. This experience, while unpleasant, pales in comparison to the systematic efforts to eradicate Palestinian existence, described as a genocide in Gaza and a slow-motion ethnic cleansing in the West Bank, perpetrated by Israeli forces and settler militias.

The situation is exacerbated by calls from Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to replicate actions taken in Gaza within the West Bank. The author's visit aimed to expose Israel's alleged crimes, including attacks on olive harvesters, which deprive Palestinians of their livelihoods. Israel's efforts to prevent external observation are increasing, with two British MP delegations denied entry in the past 18 months. Furthermore, over 200 Palestinian journalists have been killed in Gaza over three years, with evidence suggesting direct targeting. In a recent Hebron operation, Israeli forces used tear gas on journalists filming the demolition of Palestinian homes, sending a clear message that the world should not witness these events.

This visit, organized by Global Justice Now, occurred at a critical juncture, preceding Israeli elections and following the UK's announcement of sanctions on illegal West Bank settlements. While the elections' outcome remains uncertain and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could be ousted, the author expresses little hope for an end to Palestinian suffering, viewing it as a systemic issue not confined to Netanyahu or Israel's opposition. The article emphasizes the need for Britain to translate its stated intentions into concrete actions.

The UK's sanctions announcement is significant but requires rapid implementation. Three priorities are outlined: First, the sanctions package must be comprehensive, targeting the state of Israel, which utilizes settler militias for attacks, rather than solely individual settlers. The goal should be to make the entire settlement economy unviable and dismantle decades of apartheid. The UK government has the power to sanction companies profiting from illegal settlements, including those providing finance, insurance, and surveillance technologies.

Second, while the government has pledged to halt arms sales that contribute to the occupation, loopholes remain. Components for F-35 jets and arms licenses for training aircraft used by forces overseeing the occupation must be closed. The article argues against selling weapons to a military engaged in genocide and apartheid.

Third, the situation in Gaza cannot be overlooked. Changes to the Global Human Rights sanctions regime empower the UK to sanction actors blocking humanitarian aid. With Palestinians facing disease and starvation, swift action is necessary. This extends beyond emergency aid to rebuilding Gaza, which requires an end to the siege. A comprehensive sanctions package, aligned with international law, is mandated by the International Court of Justice's directive for all countries to end assistance to Israel's illegal occupation.

The urgency for firmer, faster action is clear as Israel attempts to isolate Palestinians. The article concludes by urging the use of all available tools to compel Israel to change its course.