The UK government has officially imposed sanctions on Daniella Weiss, often referred to as the "godmother" of Israel's settler movement, amidst rising tensions in the occupied territories. Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated that these measures reflect the UK's determination to address the actions of extremist settlers while Palestinian communities face ongoing violence and intimidation.
Weiss, now 79, has played a pivotal role in establishing Jewish settlements throughout the Israeli-occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem since the aftermath of the 1967 Middle East war. Her radical viewpoints are encapsulated in her leadership of Nachala, a settlers' organization that has also been subjected to sanctions. The formal sanctions outline her involvement in acts of aggression against Palestinian individuals, further underscoring the serious human rights concerns raised by UK authorities.
The Israeli government has condemned these sanctions, labeling them as "unjustified," and insists that it is not the UK's responsibility to dictate Israel's internal affairs. Alongside Weiss, additional sanctions have targeted other settlers, illegal outposts, and specific organizations involved in settlement activities. Weiss’s controversial views, including her statements concerning the re-settlement of Gaza, have drawn international criticism and concern from human rights advocates.
In a provocative statement, Weiss asserted that hundreds of families are poised to establish settlements in Gaza—highlighting her organization's calls for aggressive settlement policies. The UK has responded with more than just sanctions; it has also paused robust free trade negotiations with Israel, citing the current government's actions in the West Bank and Gaza which hinder any potential progress towards peace.
The UK's initiative follows a stern collective statement from leaders of the UK, France, and Canada, urging Israel to cease military operations and allow humanitarian assistance to flow into Gaza. As Israel gradually resumes limited food aid to Gaza after an extended blockade, concerns remain about the adequacy of support for the region's critical needs.
These developments come against the backdrop of shifting political landscapes and enduring disputes over land and sovereignty, amplifying debates about the viability of the two-state solution as tensions in the region continue to escalate.
