Norway weighs up to 3 years in prison for trade with Israeli settlers in West Bank

Norway is considering legislation that could impose prison sentences of up to three years on individuals or companies trading with Israeli settlers in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and related construction services. Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide expects parliamentary approval this fall for the proposal, which is currently undergoing public consultation until September 19. While direct trade is limited, mainly to wine and agricultural goods, Eide described the initiative as having significant political and symbolic importance. The proposal has drawn criticism, with one Israeli resident in Norway stating, "The meaning of Eide’s remarks is clear: This will turn every Jew here into a criminal." This move follows similar actions by 12 other Western countries, including Britain and Canada, to restrict or ban trade with Israeli settlements, reflecting a broader international shift in policy.