In brief
In a significant break from traditional support, the U.K. and Canada are gearing up to sanction two right-wing Israeli cabinet members: Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich. This coordinated action highlights Western nations' growing frustration with Israel's handling of the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
The sanctions will restrict travel and freeze assets for both ministers and are expected to be announced soon. Israel’s foreign minister has condemned the decision, calling it "outrageous." Previous statements from Canada, Britain, and France warned of further action unless Israel eases military operations and humanitarian restrictions in Gaza. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy criticized the Israeli government's actions as "extremism" and emphasized the severity of the situation.
