Israel breaking international law over Gaza aid blockade, says Foreign Secretary David Lammy

The UK Condemns Israel’s Blockade of Gaza as a Breach of International Law

The UK has significantly hardened its stance on the Israeli blockade of Gaza, with Foreign Secretary David Lammy declaring that Israel’s actions constitute a breach of international law. Speaking in the Commons, Lammy emphasized that while Israel has the right to defend its security, the ongoing restrictions on aid and supplies to Gaza are unacceptable and alarming. He called on Israel to restore the previous levels of humanitarian aid, which had seen approximately 600 aid trucks entering Gaza daily since the ceasefire began in January. Lammy’s statement marks a stark shift in the UK’s position, as the government had previously stopped short of accusing Israel of violating international law, instead stating that the blockade "would risk violating international humanitarian law."

The Context of the Blockade and Ceasefire Disputes

The current crisis stems from a dispute over ceasefire terms between Israel and Hamas. In early October 2023, Hamas militants launched a cross-border raid into southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and capturing around 250 hostages, according to Israeli officials. Israel responded with a massive military offensive in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of over 48,000 Palestinians, as reported by Gaza health officials. A ceasefire was agreed upon in January after 15 months of intense conflict, but tensions flared again when Hamas rejected Israel’s request to extend the first phase of the ceasefire. Hamas insisted that the release of remaining Israeli hostages would proceed under the original ceasefire terms, not under a new proposal by US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, which would have extended the ceasefire through Ramadan and Passover until April 20.

Israel’s Defense and Allegations Against Hamas

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu justified the blockade by accusing Hamas of hijacking aid trucks and using them to smuggle weapons. The Israeli government has maintained that there is "no shortage of essential products in Gaza," claiming that the only humanitarian suffering is that of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Netanyahu described Hamas as a "genocidal terrorist organization" responsible for the savage murder of 1,200 people, including 14 British citizens, during the October 7 attack. Israel has framed its actions as necessary to protect its security and prevent further attacks, while blaming Hamas for the breakdown of the ceasefire negotiations.

The UK’s Stance on Humanitarian Aid and Arms Sales

The UK government has consistently emphasized the importance of humanitarian aid reaching Gaza, with Lammy urging Israel to allow a significant increase in the number of aid trucks entering the strip. He described the current situation as "hugely alarming and very worrying," particularly given the timing during the holy month of Ramadan. The UK has also taken steps to address concerns over Israel’s use of military force, suspending arms sales to Israel last September. This decision followed a review of export licenses, which identified a "clear risk" that UK-supplied arms could be used to commit "serious violations of international humanitarian law." The suspension covered components for military aircraft, including helicopters and drones, but did not include parts for F-35 fighter jets, a decision that has drawn criticism from opposition MPs and human rights groups.

The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

The blockade has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where over 2 million people are dependent on international aid. Since the ceasefire began, approximately 600 aid trucks had been entering Gaza daily, but the recent restrictions have brought this to a near-halt. The Gaza health ministry has reported that more than half of the fatalities in the conflict were women and children, highlighting the disproportionate impact on civilians. The UK, along with other European allies, has called for civilians to be allowed to return to their homes and rebuild their lives, emphasizing that humanitarian aid should never be used as a political tool or contingent on ceasefire agreements.

Conclusion: A Call for International Action and Accountability

The UK’s explicit condemnation of Israel’s actions as a breach of international law reflects growing international concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The situation underscores the urgent need for a diplomatic resolution to the conflict and unimpeded access to humanitarian aid for the civilian population. The UK’s suspension of arms sales to Israel and its strong stance on the blockade demonstrate a commitment to upholding international law and protecting human rights, even in the face of complex geopolitical tensions. As the conflict continues, the international community must remain vigilant in advocating for the rights of civilians and ensuring that humanitarian aid reaches those in desperate need.