Norway Proposes Prison Terms for Trade With Israeli Settlements

The government of Norway is preparing legislation for a vote this autumn that would criminalize trade and business activities linked to Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. The proposed bill would ban the import and export of settlement goods, such as agricultural products and wine, and prohibit construction services and real estate transactions in these areas. Intentional violations could result in up to three years in prison, while negligent violations could carry a six-month sentence.

Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide stated the measure is necessary as the situation in the West Bank deteriorates. He asserted that Israel can no longer use allegations of antisemitism to intimidate Western critics or shield itself from violations of international law.

This move follows a trade ban recently implemented by the United Kingdom, which includes sanctions on entities facilitating settlement expansion and the denial of arms export licenses. In response to the British measures, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar announced the closure of the British consulate in Jerusalem and barred several British citizens from entering Israel. Other nations, including Ireland, Belgium, Spain, and the Netherlands, are also advancing or implementing similar bans on settlement imports.

The Embassy of Israel in Norway condemned the proposed legislation, describing it as an example of obsessive anti-Israel activism.