PM defends sanctions on Israel pair amid US fears

SIR Keir Starmer has defended the Government's decision to sanction two Israeli ministers amid sharp criticism from the US.

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The Prime Minster said the UK has sanctioned Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich to “uphold human rights and defend the prospect of a two-state solution”.

Speaking at the start of Prime Minister's Questions yesterday, he said: “Acting alongside our allies, we have sanctioned individuals responsible for inciting appalling settler violence and expansion. We've done that to uphold human rights and defend the prospect of a two-state solution.

“We will continue to support all efforts to secure a ceasefire, the release of all hostages despicably held by Hamas and the humanitarian aid that needs to surge in.