Britain widens sanction powers over firms backing West Bank settlements

Britain has expanded its sanctions powers so it can act against companies that support West Bank settlements, with the measures taking effect four days before bids close for construction in the E1 area between Jerusalem and Ma'ale Adumim. The step comes amid a diplomatic dispute between London and Jerusalem. It shows European pressure on Israel's claim to disputed land and Jerusalem's surroundings, an area Scripture treats as central to the covenant, though the report alone does not establish a wider prophetic sequence.