Paul Adams: British-Israeli relations at lowest ebb in decades

Paul Adams: British-Israeli relations at lowest ebb in decades The heated atmosphere that usually precedes an Israeli policy decision appears to have influenced Foreign Minister Gideon Saar’s sharp reply, though many Israelis share his sense of indignation. A considerable segment of the Israeli public views the violent, messianic ideology of certain settlers as deeply troubling, with some describing it as a nationalist embarrassment. Yet this criticism does not equate to a belief that the settlements erected on land seized during the 1967 Six Day War are illegal. Most Israelis would strongly reject the claim made by former prime minister Ehud Olmert last year that his successor, Benjamin Netanyahu, has turned Israel into an international pariah. Nevertheless, they sense the growing tide of global condemnation — from demonstrations at Eurovision and sporting events, to international arrest warrants targeting their leaders, and now to bans on settlement goods — which leaves them feeling anxious and defensive. Palestinians, by contrast, interpret these developments as a sign of progress. The Palestinian foreign ministry welcomed the countries that have imposed sanctions but urged “urgent, factual measures” to halt what it calls Israel’s “illegal colony enterprise”. In London, Palestinian ambassador Dr Husam Zomlot described the British government’s move as “a turning constituent successful the UK‑Palestine relationship”. He added that Britain’s “courageous steps” would help pave the way for an independent State of Palestine based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. Zomlot, however, acknowledges that Israel’s 59‑year concern is far from over and has not undergone substantial change.