UN Expert Albanese Calls for Paradigm Shift in UK's Israel Policy
UN special rapporteur Francesca Albanese welcomed the UK's plan to ban illegal settlement trade, while demanding a genuine paradigm shift.
United Nations special rapporteur Francesca Albanese described the UK's plan to ban trade with illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied territories as a delayed but positive first step. Albanese emphasized that this step must translate into a genuine paradigm shift in line with the International Court of Justice's 2024 advisory opinion.
The UK's New Policy Step
UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband stated that they would adopt a more resolute stance against Israeli settlements and ongoing aid restrictions to Gaza. While details of the new policy, expected to be announced on Tuesday, are awaited, this move has been met with mixed reactions internationally.
Reaction from US Ambassador Huckabee
US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee criticized the UK government's policy change on social media. Targeting Downing Street's stance with harsh remarks, Huckabee aligned himself with Israeli foreign policy.
Statement by the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs argued that there are no restrictions on the entry of medicines into the Gaza Strip and that no supplies are being blocked. The ministry claimed that Foreign Minister Miliband is focusing on narratives rather than facts.
Emphasis on Paradigm Shift by UN Expert
UN Special Rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories Francesca Albanese stated that the ban on settlement goods represents a very important shift in posture. However, she noted that this step alone will not be sufficient and that the 2024 International Court of Justice advisory opinion must be fully implemented.
Expectation of Comprehensive Trade and Sanctions
Albanese stressed that the trade ban cannot be limited to a narrow scope such as agricultural products and cosmetics, but must also include trade in services, intelligence cooperation, and arms licenses. Otherwise, she warned, the steps taken would go no further than a press release.
E1 Settlement Project and Financing Warning
Referring to the E1 settlement project, which would sever East Jerusalem from the rest of the West Bank, Albanese stated that sanctions targeting the financing of construction and cooperating firms must be brought to the agenda.
International Law and the International Court of Justice
Albanese called on the UK to join South Africa's case at the International Court of Justice and to support Nicaragua in its allegations against Germany. She stated that London must act according to the principles of universal law rather than its own interests.