Exclusive Reuters report reveals internal US document critical of British sanctions on West Bank settlers was prepared but withheld.
Published
A Reuters investigation published Tuesday exposes that the US administration drafted a memo condemning the United Kingdom over its West Bank sanctions, but never released it. The internal document criticized British measures targeting Israeli settlers in occupied territories — a rare instance of US disagreement with a key ally on settlement policy. The memo's existence raises questions about the depth of transatlantic coordination on Palestinian rights issues, particularly as the UK has faced pressure to expand its sanctions regime. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts between Iran and the US remain stalled, with an Iranian official confirming the two sides are still far apart in peace talks. President Pezeshkian reiterated Tehran would not surrender to US pressure. The ongoing tensions have disrupted civilian travel, as US aviation sanctions have forced Iranian airlines out of airspace, pushing travellers toward expensive overland routes. In a separate development, eight sailors assigned to a US carrier group that participated in operations against Iran attempted suicide, Navy Secretary testified to Congress.
Sources: 1. Al Jazeera: US aviation sanctions disrupt Iran flights, push travellers overland — https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/9/23/us-aviation-sanctions-disrupt-iran-flights-push-travellers-overland?traffic_source=rss (src1) 2.