The Israeli President stated that the United Kingdom will be on the "wrong side of history" if it imposes sanctions on Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, a few hours before London announced such measures. The statement was made at a time of diplomatic tension between the two countries.
The United Kingdom eventually announced sanctions against Israeli settlements in the West Bank, becoming one of the Western allies to take this measure against Israel. The British decision comes in the context of international criticism of Israeli expansionism in the occupied territories.
Israel reacted with strong condemnation of the British decision, using the expression "wrong side of history" to characterize the United Kingdom's position. This rhetoric reflects the depth of the disagreement between the two governments on the settlement issue.
The dispute occurs at a time when the international community has been increasing pressure on Israel regarding the settlements in the West Bank, territory that Palestine claims as part of its future State.
