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British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband has announced a ban on trade with Israeli settlements in the West Bank, marking a significant diplomatic shift. Miliband recently stated his intention to “reset” policy towards Israel before announcing these new economic sanctions on settlements.

In his statement, Miliband alleged that “Jewish terrorists” are operating in the West Bank while “the Israeli government turns a blind eye.” He also claimed there is “ethnic cleansing of Palestinians” occurring in the West Bank, language that represents an escalation in British official rhetoric.

Israeli diplomatic sources responding to the announcement suggested that additional countries may follow Britain’s lead. They characterised Britain’s move as politically motivated, stating the country is “playing into the anti-Israel bias.”

The announcement comes as the EU also reportedly waits for results of Israeli elections before deciding on further sanctions measures, with diplomatic sources warning that continued presence of right-wing ministers could trigger broader trade restrictions.

Sources: Ynet, www.israelhayom.co.il, Times of Israel, Jerusalem Post