Arabic version: النرويج تقترح حظر التجارة مع المستوطنات الإسرائيلية غير القانونية

Norway’s government has announced plans to ban all trade with Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory. This decision comes with the introduction of a proposal for a new bill aimed at prohibiting such transactions. According to Al Jazeera, Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide emphasized that the Israeli settlements violate international law.

Eide stated that these settlements contribute to significant issues, including displacement, extreme violence, and the hindrance of a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict. The proposed legislation seeks to prohibit trade in goods produced in these illegal settlements, which encompass areas in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem.

Moreover, the Norwegian government intends to outlaw real estate transactions within these settlements. This includes banning the purchase of property and the provision of services related to construction, renovation, or sale of properties in these areas. Eide noted that the settlements undermine the foundation for a potential Palestinian state.

Norway, which is not a member of the European Union, recognized the state of Palestine in 2024. This recognition led to a diplomatic backlash from Israel, which withdrew its ambassadors from Norway and other nations that made similar recognitions. Recently, Norway joined five other countries in imposing coordinated sanctions against networks involved in settler violence in the West Bank.

The drafted bill is currently undergoing consultations and will be reviewed over the next three months, concluding on September 19. UN special rapporteur Francesca Albanese described Norway’s initiative as a ‘small step’ but acknowledged it as a necessary beginning in addressing the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.