UK trade representative visits Israel just one week after the government officially paused negotiations on a new free trade deal. Lord Ian Austin, the UK’s trade envoy to Israel, travelled to Haifa on Monday to engage with officials and inspect joint economic projects.
His visit, part of a diplomatic effort, follows Foreign Secretary David Lammy’s announcement that trade talks were being suspended due to Israel’s intensified military action in Gaza and restrictions on aid access. The move marked a significant diplomatic shift, reflecting growing UK concern over the conflict’s humanitarian toll.
Despite this pause in formal negotiations, Lord Austin said he visited Israel “to meet businesses and officials to promote trade with the UK.” He emphasised that trade with Israel supports “thousands of good jobs” across Britain and strengthens ties with a “multi-cultural democracy.”
The British Embassy in Israel stated that Austin toured key infrastructure sites including the Haifa Bayport, a customs scanning centre, and the Haifa-Nazareth Light Rail project. These visits underline the cooperation that continues as the UK trade representative visits Israel.
The UK government has made it clear that while talks on new agreements are on hold, existing trade relationships remain intact. A Downing Street spokesperson confirmed, “We have always had a trading relationship, but are pausing any new ones.”
Earlier this month, the UK sanctioned individuals linked to settler violence in the West Bank. Among them was Daniella Weiss, a prominent figure featured in a recent documentary on Israeli settlers. The Israeli government condemned the UK’s actions as “regrettable,” accusing London of stalling progress on trade agreements.
Lord Austin previously highlighted the long-standing economic importance of trade with Israel. He said the relationship is “worth billions” and brings “massive benefits” to the UK economy. Writing for Politics Home, he defended the economic ties even amid conflict, stating that pausing negotiations “does not change our national interest.”
He also commented on the Gaza situation, calling it “terrible” but placing responsibility for continued conflict on Hamas. “The quickest way to get aid in and save lives is for Hamas to stop fighting and release hostages,” he said.
In the midst of diplomatic tensions, the UK trade representative visits Israel, showcasing ongoing economic engagement despite broader freezes on formal talks.
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