France, UK to Join Ban on Goods from Israeli Settlements

France and the United Kingdom will join ten other countries in banning imports from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. The move targets goods produced in areas that the international community considers illegal under international law. The ban applies to products such as fruits, vegetables, cosmetics, and household items made in settlement factories or farms. These settlements are built on land captured by Israel in the 1967 Middle East war. Most countries view them as a violation of the Geneva Conventions, which forbid a nation from moving its civilian population into occupied territory. The decision follows similar actions by countries including Belgium, the Netherlands, and Spain. The new policy will not affect goods made inside Israel’s pre-1967 borders. Trade between the UK, France, and Israel itself will continue as usual. Supporters of the ban say it is a peaceful way to pressure Israel to stop expanding settlements. They argue that settlement goods compete unfairly with Palestinian products and that buying them supports an occupation that harms Palestinian rights. Israel rejects the ban, calling it discriminatory and politically motivated. Israeli officials say the settlements are not illegal and that the boycott targets Jewish businesses unfairly. They have threatened legal action against the European nations. The ban is expected to take effect within the next year. It will require customs officers to check the origin of imported goods carefully. Businesses that violate the new rules could face heavy fines. This decision adds to growing European pressure on Israel over its policies in the West Bank. It also comes as peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians remain stalled.