UK to Ban Trade with Illegal Israeli Settlements in Major Policy Shift

Ed Miliband will announce a sweeping change in UK foreign policy on Tuesday, pledging a more active role in supporting Palestinian rights and confirming a ban on trade in goods and some services from illegal Israeli settlements. The foreign secretary’s move, which he calls a “broad reset” of UK-Israel relations, is expected to draw fierce criticism from both the United States and Israel. Under the new policy, the UK will prohibit imports and certain business dealings linked to settlements that are considered illegal under international law. Miliband will also reaffirm the UK’s support for Palestinian statehood and a two-state solution. The announcement marks a clear departure from previous UK positions and signals a tougher stance toward Israel’s presence in occupied territories.