A joint statement of foreign ministers of these countries indicates that restrictions include a ban on entry for both politicians and freezing their assets in financial institutions operating in the territory of these countries.
According to the British Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which initiated actions, sanctions are a response to multiple statements and actions of ministers, which were recognized as inciting violence against Palestinians. Smotricz was attributed to the approval for the expansion of Jewish housing estates on the occupied west shore and a declaration that “Gaza will be completely destroyed”. Ben Gwir, in turn, called for the synagogue to build at the place of the Al-Aaksa Mosque in Jerusalem and negated the need to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza, claiming that they “have it enough”.
“Itamar Ben Gwir and Becalel Smotricz stuck to extremist violence and serious violations of human rights Palestinians,” it was emphasized in a common position. These countries also pointed out that they are in favor of immediate suspension of weapons in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Ministers' reaction
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar reacted to the decision, describing sanctions as “scandalous”. He announced that the Israeli government would officially refer to this situation at the beginning of next week.
During Tuesday's opening of the new housing estate near Hebron, Smotricz referred to the decision, saying: “Great Britain has already tried to prevent us from settling the cradle of our homeland and we cannot allow it again. With God's help, we will continue construction.”
The conflict in the Gaza Zone for over a year and a half led to serious infrastructure damage, and the situation of civilians was defined by humanitarian organizations as catastrophic. Although Israel in May allowed partial resumption of humanitarian aid, assistance organizations claim that it is far from sufficient.
