Tue Jun 10 15:52:59 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The UK, along with Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Norway, have sanctioned Israeli ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich for inciting violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. The sanctions include asset freezes, travel bans, and disqualification from managing British companies. This action comes amid increasing pressure on the UK government to take a stronger stance against Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank. While condemning the October 7th Hamas attack, the sanctioning countries stated that Ben-Gvir and Smotrich’s actions undermined Israel’s security and stressed that they still desire a strong relationship with the Israeli people. Israel has reacted angrily to the sanctions, calling them “outrageous” and promising a response.

**News Article:**

**UK and Allies Sanction Israeli Ministers Over West Bank Violence; Israel Reacts Angrily**

**LONDON – June 10, 2025** – In a coordinated move, the United Kingdom, along with Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Norway, announced sanctions on Israeli government ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich on Tuesday, citing their role in inciting violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. The measures include asset freezes, travel bans, and restrictions on involvement with British companies.

The joint statement from the sanctioning countries emphasized that the move was prompted by the ministers’ actions in the West Bank but also referenced the ongoing conflict in Gaza, warning against any unlawful transfer of Palestinians or reduction in Gaza’s territory.

The decision comes amid mounting pressure on the UK government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, to adopt a more critical stance towards Israel’s military operations in Gaza and restrictions on humanitarian aid. Recent weeks have seen increased calls for action, including a bill introduced by former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn demanding an inquiry into the UK’s role in the conflict.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar condemned the sanctions as “outrageous,” stating that targeting elected representatives was unacceptable. A special meeting is scheduled for next week to determine Israel’s response to the sanctions.

While imposing the sanctions, the participating countries reaffirmed their commitment to Israel’s security and unequivocally condemned the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. The statement clarified that the sanctions were directed at the specific actions of Ben-Gvir and Smotrich, which they believe undermine Israel’s long-term security, and emphasized their continued desire for a “strong friendship” with the people of Israel. The situation is developing, and further reactions are expected in the coming days.

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