Britain prepares a new problem for Israel
A report by the pro-European organization Best for Britain, covered by the Financial Times, suggests the UK could rejoin the EU within a single parliamentary term. The rapprochement between London and Brussels could increase European pressure on Israel regarding Judea and Samaria, where the British government has already announced a tightening of policy and plans for sanctions against settlements.
A report by the pro-European organization Best for Britain, covered by the Financial Times, suggests that the United Kingdom could return to the European Union much faster than expected—within a single parliamentary term. The authors of the study consider fears of lengthy negotiations exaggerated, pointing to the preservation of close economic ties and the alignment of British legislation with EU norms after Brexit. Finland is cited as an example, having completed the accession process in less than three years in the 1990s. A YouGov poll shows that 52% of Britons would support a return, while 27% would oppose it; more than a fifth of those who voted for Brexit in 2016 are now ready to support the reverse. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has allowed for a review of the referendum's consequences, promising a nationwide discussion. The initiative has been supported by French President Emmanuel Macron and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. For Israel, the possible return of Britain to the EU is particularly significant: the British government has already announced a tightening of policy regarding Israeli settlements in Judea and Samaria, including plans for economic restrictions. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband has stated his intention to impose sanctions on goods from settlements and related companies, as well as to restrict advertising. In the event of a return to the EU, London's position could gain additional influence within pan-European discussions, potentially complicating Israel's diplomatic and economic relations with European states. However, the report does not mean a decision has been made—implementing the scenario would require political support, negotiations with Brussels, and the consent of all member states.