As calls for Israel Sanctions over its offensive in Gaza gain momentum, several countries and activist movements are imposing sanctions and advocating for boycotts.
While Israel’s allies have urged for increased aid to Gaza to prevent a deepening humanitarian crisis, only a few have taken concrete steps to sanction Israel or boycott Israeli products.
Turkey Takes a Stand
Turkey, in its most significant move against Israel since the conflict began, has announced a halt in trade with Israel, valued at $7 billion (€6.52 billion) annually. Trade Minister Omer Bolat declared that Turkey will not resume trade until a permanent cease-fire is established and humanitarian aid is ensured in Gaza. The decision comes in response to what Turkey perceives as Israel’s unyielding stance and the deteriorating situation in Gaza’s southern Rafah region. Israel’s Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, criticized the move, labeling it a breach of international trade agreements.
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France Mulls Israel Sanctions
France, among major Western powers, has hinted at the possibility of imposing sanctions to pressure Israel into withdrawing its troops from Gaza and allowing more humanitarian aid to reach displaced Palestinians. French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné mentioned the potential for targeted sanctions similar to those imposed by the US, Canada, and the UK on Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank.
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Israel Sanctions by Western Countries
In February, the Biden administration, in coordination with Canada, France, and the UK, took a significant step by imposing targeted sanctions on Israeli settlers and outposts located in the West Bank. These sanctions were a direct response to allegations of the settlers’ involvement in violent acts against Palestinians, exacerbating the already tense situation in the region. The imposed sanctions included asset freezes and restrictions on any dealings with the individuals identified.
The Biden administration also announced plans to enforce clear labeling of goods produced in West Bank settlements. This decision aims to provide consumers with transparent information about the origin of products, enabling them to make informed purchasing decisions. By mandating clear labeling, the administration seeks to ensure that consumers are aware of the distinction between goods originating from Israeli settlements in the West Bank and those produced elsewhere. This initiative aligns with the broader efforts to address the complex political and humanitarian issues surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Additionally, US also imposed Israel Sanctions on extremist groups.
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Last week UK imposed additional Israel sanctions on two other extremist groups from Israel engaged in spreading terrorism.
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Chile’s Ban on Israeli Participation
Chile has barred Israeli companies from participating in the 2024 International Air and Space Fair (FIDAE) and has canceled all cooperation and training activities with Israel on Chilean territory. This decision follows Chile’s appeal to the International Criminal Court in January to investigate Israel’s actions in Gaza and the occupied territories.
Disruption in Arab-Israeli Relations
The recent conflict between Israel and Hamas has stalled progress on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), aimed at fostering economic integration between Asia, the Persian Gulf, and Europe. The conflict has also hindered efforts to normalize ties between Israel and Arab states. Israel’s aggressive tactics against civilians in Gaza have been condemned by Arab nations, with Saudi Arabia emphasizing that normalization of relations depends on a two-state solution.
OIC Calls For Israel sanctions
Founded in 1969 after the burning of the al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem, the OIC aims to increase Muslim solidarity, support the Palestinian struggle and defend Muslim holy sites.
The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation on Sunday denounced a “genocide” in Gaza, urging its 57 member countries to impose sanctions on Israel in a resolution adopted at the end of its Gambia summit.
BDS Movement Advocates Global Sanctions
The Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, a nonviolent Palestinian-led initiative, is calling for global economic Israel sanctions. Inspired by South Africa’s anti-apartheid movement, BDS has branches in 40 countries and advocates boycotts of Israeli products, cultural events, and collaborations with foreign companies supporting Israel. While BDS faces accusations of antisemitism from Israel and the US, several apps, including Boycat, have been developed to help consumers boycott businesses with ties to Israel and its actions in Gaza.
These Israel Sanctions are likely to have a significant impact on the future of trade and banking relations with Israel.
