UK and Netherlands Defy US as They Sanction Israel
The United Kingdom and Netherlands are implementing sanctions against Israeli settlements and defying US efforts to dismantle the International Criminal Court.
The Government of the United Kingdom is expanding its global human rights and international humanitarian law sanctions regime to target entities that enable illegal Israeli settlements, obstruct humanitarian aid, or unlawfully hold prisoners. These new powers, accelerated by Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband, allow the UK to freeze assets, impose travel bans, and disqualify directors. The move follows the Israeli government's closure of the UK consulate and comes as Israel prepares to move forward with the E1 settlement in the West Bank.
In a broader diplomatic conflict, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands have issued a joint statement pledging to defy sanctions imposed by the United States Department of State against the International Criminal Court. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has pledged to dismantle the court to protect nonmember state citizens from prosecution. In response, the Netherlands intends to activate the European Union blocking statute to prevent EU companies from complying with US measures.
Simultaneously, the UK and the Netherlands have implemented bans on business activities related to Israeli settlements, including areas in Jerusalem. These measures conflict with US antiboycott laws because they require companies to provide negative certifications regarding boycotted goods. The UK has further indicated it will freeze the assets of individuals involved in housing activities in specific residential areas of Jerusalem.
