In a significant shift in its stance, the UK has accused Israel of violating international law by blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza. Foreign Secretary David Lammy made the declaration during a House of Commons debate on Monday, marking the first time the British government has explicitly accused Israel of such a breach since the conflict began.
Lammy criticized Israel’s blockade, which has prevented food, fuel, and medicine from entering Gaza for over two weeks, calling it “unacceptable, hugely alarming, and very worrying.” He urged Israel to allow at least 600 aid trucks into Gaza daily to address the dire humanitarian situation. The blockade is seen as a tactic to pressure Hamas into adhering to a fragile ceasefire.
The UK’s accusation follows its 2024 decision to suspend around 30 arms export licenses to Israel after reviewing its compliance with international humanitarian law. Lammy’s comments reflect a hardening of the UK’s position, as previous statements had stopped short of explicitly accusing Israel of breaking international law.
Labour MP Rupa Huq also criticized Israel’s actions during Ramadan, calling them “provocative” and questioning the consequences of the alleged breach. Lammy reiterated that while Israel has the right to defend itself, the blockade constitutes a violation of international law.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has consistently emphasized the importance of compliance with international law, balancing support for Israel’s right to self-defense with calls for a “proportionate” response. In 2024, Starmer condemned the civilian suffering in Gaza as “beyond belief” and called for an immediate ceasefire and increased aid access.
The UK’s stance underscores its commitment to international legal norms, as seen in its cooperation with the International Criminal Court (ICC) and its handling of other contentious issues, such as the Chagos Islands dispute. However, the accusation against Israel is likely to strain diplomatic relations and spark further debate over the UK’s role in mediating the conflict.
As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens, the UK’s call for Israel to lift the blockade highlights the growing international pressure to address the suffering of Palestinian civilians while navigating the complexities of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
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