The European country that may impose prison sentences on those who buy products from Judea and Samaria
Norway and ten other Western countries are advancing unprecedented legislation that would impose prison sentences of up to three years on entities and individuals who trade in products from Judea and Samaria. The Norwegian foreign minister is optimistic that the law will be approved this fall. In Jerusalem, the move has sparked widespread anger, and Israel closed the British consulate in response to similar steps by the UK.
Norway and ten other Western countries are advancing unprecedented legislation that imposes prison sentences of up to three years on entities and individuals who trade in products from Judea and Samaria. Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide expressed optimism that the law will be approved by parliament as early as this fall, noting that lawmakers are facing growing pressure to respond to the deteriorating situation in the territories. According to him, the United States' response to the trend has been surprisingly moderate and tolerant, indicating that Israel's political standing is eroding. In Jerusalem, the move has sparked widespread anger; in response to similar steps by the UK, Israel closed the British consulate in Jerusalem. The scope of direct trade between Norway and the settlements is limited and mainly includes agricultural products, wine, and construction and engineering services. Experts note that this is a symbolic-basic step carrying an unequivocal economic message.