Arab and Muslim Nations Applaud Britain's Move Against West Bank Goods

Eight Arab and Muslim countries issued a joint statement today (Wednesday) supporting Britain's decision to ban imports of products from Judea and Samaria and impose sanctions on Israeli citizens. The countries are seeking to encourage additional governments to join the measures and build a broad international consensus around them.

The statement was signed by the foreign ministries of Jordan, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Pakistan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. In the announcement, the countries expressed hope that the British move would help bring settlement organizations and individuals whom they claim are involved in illegal activity in Judea and Samaria to trial.

Alongside their response to the British measures, the foreign ministers also addressed the war in the south, stressing that "the Gaza Strip is an integral part of the Palestinian territories." They called for the full and immediate implementation of U.S. President Donald Trump's plan to end the conflict in Gaza, arguing that its implementation would help achieve security and stability, address the humanitarian crisis, advance reconstruction efforts, and lay the groundwork for long-term peace.

The Muslim countries also welcomed statements recently issued in European countries regarding a two-state solution, including intentions to restrict trade with Israeli communities. At the same time, they called on the international community to move from declarations to practical steps that would halt activities contributing to continued Israeli construction in the area.

The joint statement comes a day after the office of Palestinian Authority Chairman Abu Mazen also welcomed the British foreign minister's announcement. In Ramallah, officials described it as "an important step in the confrontation with the Israeli settlement enterprise," and argued that it represents a progressive British position reaffirming the illegality of the communities.