Australia considers new Israel sanctions but won’t join UK in banning trade with ‘settler terrorists’

The Australian government is currently evaluating the implementation of new targeted sanctions against Israeli settlers, diverging from the approach taken by the United Kingdom, France, and Canada. While those nations have moved to ban trade with individuals identified as settler terrorists, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has expressed reservations regarding a blanket trade ban, favoring a more specific, targeted measure instead.

This policy shift highlights a strategic difference in how Australia manages its diplomatic response to regional instability compared to its international counterparts. The planned measures represent an ongoing effort by the Australian government to address concerns regarding settler activity while maintaining a distinct regulatory framework from the broader international consensus.