Western Nations Freeze Assets of Two Israeli Ministers Over Gaza Policies

The United Kingdom, alongside Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Norway, has imposed asset freezes and travel bans on Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich.

The coordinated sanctions target the ministers for "repeated incitement of violence against Palestinian communities" and extremist rhetoric exacerbating human rights abuses in Gaza and the West Bank.

Far-Right Policies Under Scrutiny

Ben-Gvir and Smotrich—key figures in Israel’s ruling coalition—have long advocated expanding illegal settlements and annexing Palestinian territory. Smotrich has openly endorsed expelling Palestinians and destroying Gaza, while Ben-Gvir, a settler himself, calls for re-establishing settlements in Gaza. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy condemned their "inflammatory actions" as unacceptable, stating they directly contribute to civilian suffering.

Israel Condemns 'Outrageous' Move

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar announced an emergency cabinet meeting to respond to the sanctions. Smotrich dismissed the action during a settlement inauguration in Hebron, invoking British colonial history: "Britain already tried to prevent us settling our homeland. We won’t allow it again." The sanctions reflect mounting Western frustration with Israel’s military campaign and aid restrictions.

Diplomatic Pressure Intensifies

The UK recently suspended trade talks with Israel and summoned its ambassador over "egregious policies" in occupied territories. Lammy warned Israeli operations represent "a dark new phase," citing Smotrich’s explicit endorsement of ethnic cleansing. France and Canada joined the UK in threatening "concrete actions" unless Israel halts offensives and lifts aid blockades. All nations reaffirmed commitment to a two-state solution.

Humanitarian Catastrophe Deepens

Gaza’s Health Ministry reports nearly 55,000 Palestinian deaths since October 2023, mostly women and children. Israel’s blockade has collapsed food and medical systems, with famine conditions worsening. Over 130 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire while seeking aid since May. In the West Bank, Israeli raids have escalated, including a recent assault on Nablus that injured 60 and locked down the Old City. Settler violence against civilians continues under military protection.