President Isaac Herzog on Tuesday warned the United Kingdom against imposing trade sanctions on Israeli products from Judea and Samaria, saying such a move would constitute interference in Israel’s democratic elections and harm both Israelis and Palestinians.
Speaking at the ‘Horizon Europe’ awards ceremony at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem, Herzog addressed the expected announcement of British trade sanctions later in the day.
“Later today, we expect to see headlines announcing certain British trade sanctions on Israeli settlements in Judea and Samaria," Herzog said. “If this happens - and other nations may join - I believe it will prove to be a grave miscalculation, a decision that will fall on the wrong side of history."
The President warned that sanctions would have consequences beyond Israel, arguing that they would also harm Palestinian Arabs who rely on employment and business connected to the affected areas.
“In the current context, it would be a gross interference in the democratic elections of a sovereign nation. And it will serve no one," Herzog stated.
“It will directly harm - unfortunately - Palestinians, robbing them of business and employment. And, ultimately, it will undermine the interests and national security of freedom-loving nations."
Herzog concluded by calling on foreign governments to abandon sanctions and boycotts in favor of dialogue and cooperation.
“Sanctions are not a solution. Dialogue is," he said. “I say to all foreign governments: Stop! Step away from the dead-end of sanctions and boycotts. And turn toward constructive dialogue and toward cooperation."