Trump speaks with Britain’s new Prime Minister Andy Burnham

British Ambassador Sir Christian Turner discussed the new UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham and his progressive policies during a conversation with Sandra Smith. Turner pointed out Burnham’s emphasis on fostering economic growth and revitalizing communities, which he believes will lead to British job creation and strengthen the UK’s sovereignty. He also highlighted the vital nature of the US-UK relationship. Additionally, the discussion touched on the importance of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and maintaining open maritime routes.

The UK is set to announce restrictions on trade involving Israeli settlements in the West Bank, a decision that is already facing significant backlash from US and Israeli officials. Reportedly, a US State Department source indicated that they are closely monitoring these developments.

It seems the measures might include an embargo on certain goods and services linked to West Bank settlements, marking a notable shift in London’s approach under Burnham, who has adopted a more assertive foreign policy stance regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

This announcement is expected to follow a call Burnham had with President Donald Trump. According to an update from No. 10 Downing Street, the two leaders discussed the Middle East, with Burnham advocating for a two-state solution—an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel.

The readout from the call did not make any mention of the upcoming sanctions. However, reports suggest that the timing of the conversation hints at Burnham possibly informing Trump about these prospective measures against goods and services associated with Israeli settlements.

This potential move may introduce some tension between Burnham and Washington, particularly given the Trump administration’s strong support for Israel.

Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband is anticipated to formally unveil the new sanctions. He has already promised a “comprehensive reset” of Britain’s policy towards Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Miliband recently indicated that these measures were a response to the expansion of Israeli settlements, including the controversial E1 project near Jerusalem, which he described as a longstanding “red line.” The UK, according to Miliband, aims to take actions to preserve the possibility of a two-state resolution.

The planned sanctions have sparked intense criticism in both Israel and the United States. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has called for the expulsion of the British ambassador, expressing that his country won’t accept actions from what he describes as an antisemitic government. Meanwhile, in the US, Rep. Randy Fine warned that these measures could conflict with Florida’s anti-boycott legislation, potentially restricting opportunities for some British businesses working with state and local authorities.

In the meantime, Burnham has joined other global leaders in condemning Israel’s E1 settlement expansion, arguing that such projects undermine the viability of a future Palestinian state.