UK freezes Israeli trade talks over Gaza; places sanctions on Judea and Samaria

The United Kingdom has officially suspended its free trade negotiations with Israel and imposed sanctions on Israeli settlements in Judea and Samaria, citing escalating military operations in Gaza

In a sharp diplomatic move, the British Foreign Office summoned the Israeli ambassador to London on Monday, demanding clarification over Israel’s conduct in the ongoing conflict.

Israel's Foreign Office issued the following statment in reaction: "Even before today's announcement - the topic was not prioritized at all by the current government in Britain. Furthermore, the agreement is for the mutual benefit of both countries. If the British government is willing to harm the British economy due to an anti-Israel obsession and internal political considerations, that is its decision.The sanctions against settlers in Judea and Samaria are puzzling, unjustified, and particularly disappointing when they are taken while Israel is mourning another victim of Palestinian terrorism - Tze'ela Gez, may her memory be a blessing, who was murdered on her way to the delivery room, and doctors are still fighting for the life of her newborn in the hospital.The British mandate ended exactly 77 years ago. External pressures will not divert Israel from its path in its struggle for its existence and security against enemies that seek its destruction."