UK halts trade talks with Israel, summons ambassador over fresh Gaza offensive
The Israeli military announced the launch of a new operation last week, with Netanyahu declaring that Israel would take control of the entire Gaza Strip.
British foreign secretary David Lammy is expected to announce a suspension of trade deal negotiations with Israel, the government said on Tuesday.
Keir Starmer, UK prime minister, during a business reception on the sidelines of the UK-EU summit, at Downing Street in London, UK. (Bloomberg File)
It added that Israel’s ambassador had also been summoned in response to the intensification of Israeli military operations in Gaza.
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The Israeli military announced the launch of a new operation last week, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declaring that Israel would take control of the entire Gaza Strip.
Since early March, Israel has blocked the entry of medical supplies, food, and fuel into Gaza, prompting international experts to warn of an impending famine.
Foreign minister David Lammy criticised the offensive as an ineffective way to secure the release of remaining hostages, called for an end to Israel’s blockade on aid, and condemned what he described as “extremism” within parts of Israel’s government.
“We cannot stand by in the face of this new deterioration. It is incompatible with the principles that underpin our bilateral relationship,” Lammy told lawmakers.
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“Frankly, it’s an affront to the values of the British people. Therefore, today, I’m announcing that we have suspended negotiations with this Israeli government on a new free trade agreement.”
France, Canada, Britain condemn Israel’s Gaza offensive
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“Frankly, it’s an affront to the values of the British people. Therefore, today, I’m announcing that we have suspended negotiations with this Israeli government on a new free trade agreement.”
France, Canada, Britain condemn Israel’s Gaza offensive
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On Monday, Britain, alongside France and Canada, issued a joint statement condemning the expansion of Israel’s military operations in Gaza and urging the lifting of restrictions on aid.
“I want to put on record today that we’re horrified by the escalation from Israel,” Starmer told parliament on Tuesday.
“We reiterate our call for a ceasefire as the only way to secure the release of hostages, oppose settlements in the West Bank, and demand a significant increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza.”
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Britain also imposed sanctions on several individuals and groups in the West Bank accused of involvement in violent acts against Palestinians.
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