More than 130 UK legal experts write to Prime Minister Andy Burnham saying the sanctions announced by Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband against Israeli settlements do not go far enough. In a letter sent on Tuesday, the lawyers, including former judges and legal academics, argue the measures fall short of what Britain must do under international law following a 2024 ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The UK’s recent announcement includes an import ban on goods from illegal Israeli settlements in Palestine and other related steps, and the government states that the occupation of Palestinian territory is illegal. The experts say the UK should take further action to oppose the occupation, in line with the ICJ’s findings and obligations described in the ruling. Some signatories cited include Michael Mansfield KC, Imran Khan KC, and former Lord Justice of Appeal Alan Moses.
Different outlets emphasize the same core point: the sanctions are welcomed by the signatories but described as insufficient. The letter also reflects broader concerns about whether the government’s current measures adequately address the legal requirements tied to the ICJ decision.
