The sanctions target the two ministers, known for their extreme right-wing positions and incendiary remarks regarding the expulsion of Palestinians. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy described their conduct as inciting violence against Palestinians and characterized their statements as "monstrous." The joint statement from the five countries condemns their actions as violations of human rights and an affront to international norms.

The decision to sanction Ben-Gvir and Smotrich comes on the heels of a rising humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with reports of severe civilian suffering. British officials indicated that the sanctions aim to pressure Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government into pursuing a ceasefire with Hamas, amidst calls for an immediate halt to hostilities and a pathway toward a two-state solution.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar responded to the sanctions by labeling them "unacceptable," asserting the government's sovereignty to govern without external interference. He reiterated that the ministers were elected representatives and should not face punitive measures from foreign governments.

As tensions mount, the joint declaration emphasizes the necessity for an immediate ceasefire, a surge in humanitarian aid to Gaza, and the release of hostages held by Hamas, which the countries believe should not play a future role in Gaza’s governance.

This coordinated approach displays a marked shift in how traditionally allied nations perceive Israel's governmental actions and reflects a growing urgency in addressing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.

The sanctions were a long time in planning, emerging from previous critiques about the humanitarian impact of the conflict, and serve to illustrate a crack in the historical support for Israeli policies from Western allies.