Several countries, including the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, have decided to impose sanctions on two far-right Israeli ministers due to their controversial remarks about Gaza. The comments made by Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, which included plans to destroy Gaza and expand settlements in the West Bank, were deemed as 'monstrous'.

The UK, along with its international allies, has frozen the assets of the Israeli security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, and the finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich. Additionally, travel bans have been imposed on them. Notably, the US is not part of this joint action.

The Israeli government was informed about the sanctions on Tuesday. Typically, such announcements are kept confidential to prevent the targeted individuals from moving their assets.

Ministers in the UK had the option to impose sanctions on the two Israeli ministers for over a year. However, it was only recently that they decided to proceed after ensuring international support for the move.

Bezalel Smotrich has been known for approving the expansion of West Bank settlements and opposing humanitarian aid in Gaza. In a statement in May, he expressed his intention to restrict aid to the war-torn region. He also made controversial remarks about Gaza's destruction and the relocation of civilians.

Itamar Ben-Gvir, on the other hand, created uproar by storming the al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem and advocating for its conversion into a synagogue. He has also called for the expulsion of Palestinians from Gaza, emphasizing the need for their voluntary emigration.

UK Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, condemned Smotrich's comments as 'monstrous' and 'repellant' in the Commons. While he initially refrained from imposing sanctions, he later announced restrictions on a group of settlers and halted talks on an expanded trade deal with Israel.

Although there was no formal ministerial statement in the Commons regarding the new sanctions, it is anticipated that ministers will face pressure to address the issue.