The United Kingdom, alongside several Western allies, has announced sanctions against Israeli ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich over “repeated incitements of violence against Palestinian communities” in the West Bank.
The measures, which include travel bans and asset freezes, were unveiled by the UK’s Foreign Office on Tuesday, June 10, 2025.
Similar restrictions are being implemented by Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Norway in a joint effort to address rising tensions in the region.
The UK and its allies in a joint statement said, “We are steadfastly committed to the two-state solution, which is the only way to guarantee security and dignity for Israelis and Palestinians and ensure long-term stability in the region. But it is imperiled by extremist settler violence and settlement expansion.”
Ben Gvir, Israel’s National Security Minister, and Smotrich, the Finance Minister, are both prominent figures in far-right political movements that bolster Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s fragile coalition.
Their statements and policies regarding the West Bank have drawn significant criticism.
The sanctions are aimed at condemning the ministers’ rhetoric, particularly their advocacy for forced displacement of Palestinians and the expansion of Israeli settlements.
“Extremist rhetoric advocating the forced displacement of Palestinians and the creation of new Israeli settlements is appalling and dangerous”.
Though focused on the West Bank, the allies acknowledged the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, stating, “Of course, this cannot be seen in isolation from the catastrophe in Gaza. We continue to be appalled by the immense suffering of civilians, including the denial of essential aid.”
