Four representatives introduced a resolution denouncing the European Commission’s new labeling guidelines on Israeli goods originating in West Bank settlements.
House Resolution 567, was introduced Dec. 14 by Reps. Nita Lowey (D-N.Y.), Peter Roskam (R-Ill.), Eliot Engel (D-N.Y.) and Ed Rocye (R-Calif.). It is intended to express opposition to the interpretive notice regarding labeling of goods from the West Bank destined for the European Union, one of Israel’s largest trading partners.
The resolution calls upon the European Commission, the Council of the European Union and the European Parliament to “oppose any boycott, divestment, or sanctions initiatives aimed at singling out Israel.”
“Boycotts chip away at economic integration, which negatively affects Israelis and Palestinians alike,” reads a joint statement from the sponsoring representatives. “The establishment of the European Economic Community was predicated on the notion that peace and security are achieved through trade, economic cooperation, and job creation — not boycotts and isolation. The same is true for Israelis and Palestinians.”
The European Commission adopted its labeling stance in November at a meeting in Brussels. Territories in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, Gaza Strip and the Golan Heights are subject to labeling.
Israeli politicians have pushed back, calling the labeling a double standard.
