As sanctions expand: Dozens of European MEPs stand with Israel

Amid the expansion of European sanctions on Judea and Samaria, dozens of MEPs from the 'Patriots for Europe' group signed a charter in Strasbourg adopting IHRA principles and expressing opposition to boycotts of Israel and settlements. The group unites representatives from right-wing and nationalist parties, including Czech ANO, Hungarian Fidesz, Austrian Freedom Party, Dutch Party for Freedom, and French National Rally. MK Michael Kleiner said the sanctions imposed by 12 countries, led by Britain, are a 'double-edged sword' that could harm tens of thousands of Palestinians who earn a living working for Jews. He pointed to Sodastream as an example of a boycott that harmed Arab workers. MK Ariel Kalner, chairman of the committee for cooperation with the European Parliament, attacked the sanctions and linked them to modern anti-Semitism. The conference and signing of the charter are part of an effort to deepen ties with right-wing and conservative parties in Europe, at a time when pressures and measures against settlements are increasing.