The United Kingdom has suspended free trade talks with Israel, summoned the Israeli ambassador for a formal protest, and imposed new sanctions on Israeli settlers in the West Bank due to Israel’s renewed military offensive in Gaza, reports FRE.
The Israeli military launched a new operation last week, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating that Israel will take full control of Gaza.
Since March, Israel has blocked medical supplies, food, and fuel from entering Gaza. International experts have warned of a looming mass famine as a result.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated that the offensive is not the path to freeing the remaining hostages in Gaza. He called for an end to the blockade on humanitarian aid and condemned what he described as “extremism” within parts of the Israeli government.
“We cannot stand by in the face of this new deterioration. This undermines the principles of our bilateral relations,” Lammy told lawmakers.
“Frankly, this is an insult to British values. That is why I am announcing today that we have suspended talks with this Israeli government on a new trade agreement,” he added.
In a joint statement with France and Canada, the UK condemned the expansion of Israeli military operations in Gaza and demanded the lifting of restrictions on humanitarian aid. They warned of further concrete actions if Israel does not halt its offensive.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed Parliament, saying:
“We are appalled by the escalation by Israel. We repeat our call for a ceasefire as the only way to free hostages, oppose settlements in the West Bank, and demand a massive increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza.”
The UK also imposed sanctions on several individuals and groups in the West Bank for involvement in violent actions against Palestinians.
In 2024, the UK had already sanctioned several Israeli settlers and organizations, targeting those allegedly responsible for sponsoring violence against Palestinian communities.
“We are once again demonstrating that we will act against those committing serious human rights violations,” Lammy said.
Israel’s ground and air assault has devastated Gaza, displacing nearly the entire population of 2.3 million and killing over 53,000 people, according to Gaza health authorities.
Prime Minister Netanyahu has defended the war as a “battle of civilization versus barbarism” and vowed to “defend Israel by any necessary means until total victory.”
