Burnham’s Israel sanctions plan could risk UK national security, shadow foreign secretary warns
Shadow foreign secretary Tom Tugendhat warned that changes to policy regarding Israel could put risk Britain's national security.
Andy Burnham’s plans to sanction Israel over illegal settlements in the West Bank could risk Britain’s national security and make it harder to prevent terrorist attacks, a senior Conservative has warned.
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Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband said this week that the UK would “reset” its policy on Israel, as ministers suggested exports from Israeli settlements in the West Bank, a Palestinian territory, could face sanctions.
Shadow foreign secretary Tom Tugendhat told The Telegraph that taking action against Israel could put Britain's intelligence-sharing relationship with the country at risk.
He said: “It’s worth remembering that Israel is one of our most important intelligence partners, and has been for many, many years.
“I can tell you, as security minister, a lot of incidents did not happen because of co-operation with intelligence sources in Israel, who helped us to protect British people from terror attacks."
“Now, the first job of the British Government is the protection of the British people, and one of the things I am absolutely clear on, is that leading Britain’s foreign policy is about protecting our people first.”
Tensions in the West Bank have risen in recent months, with Israeli settlers and Palestinians becoming involved in violent disputes.
Israeli settlements in the West Bank are illegal under international law and Israeli law.
Mr Burnham suggested he could take a different approach to the Government’s policy on the conflict after being appointed as Prime Minister.
Labour has lost the backing of some of its left-wing supporters under Sir Keir Starmer, following criticism of his initial approach to the conflict between Israeli forces and Hamas in Gaza.
Mr Tugendhat also suggested Argentina should be blocked from joining a major trade agreement.
The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) includes the UK, while Argentine President Javier Milei has repeatedly reiterated his country's claim to the Falkland Islands.
Mr Milei has also said he would introduce sanctions against oil companies operating in the area.
Mr Tugendhat said: “If (Javier) Milei wants to end his economic crisis, he needs Britain to let him in. I would veto any application from states that threaten the peace of the South Atlantic. We will not be bullied.
“Britain cannot accept those who threaten us as trade allies. Milei’s political distractions are costing his people. Britain can be friends with Argentina again, but not if we’re being threatened.”