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Britain’s support for Israel not ‘unconditional’: Foreign Secretary Cameron

By Selin Atay
Apr 8, 2024 5:00 PM

Foreign Secretary David Cameron emphasizes Britain’s stance on Israel’s violation of international law

Britain’s support for Israel is not “unconditional,” expecting “a proud and successful democracy to abide by international humanitarian law, even when challenged,” British Foreign Secretary David Cameron said in a newspaper column.

War on Gaza: 'Children paying highest price' - Daily Trust
Cameron’s remarks came at a time nearly a week after an Israeli strike killed seven food aid workers in the Gaza Strip, not after more than 33,000 people were killed in Gaza since the Oct. 7 attack on Israel.
He voiced his opinion on the killing of seven U.S.-based food charity World Central Kitchen (WCK) aid workers, calling it a “tragic and avoidable killing.” Cameron underscored the ongoing inquiry into the strike, which has already identified deficiencies in the conduct of Israeli army personnel involved.

“This must never happen again,” he said, noting that three of the victims were British citizens.

Despite Britain’s longstanding alliance with Israel, Cameron’s recent comments suggest a tougher stance on the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

He warned that the “prospect of a famine is real” in Gaza and announced that a Royal Navy ship was headed to the Mediterranean to help set up a maritime aid corridor. Turning to the ongoing humanitarian efforts for the besieged enclave, he said a “flood of aid” is needed. 

Not just Israeli bombs. Children in Gaza are dying of hunger - Los Angeles Times

Children are dying from the effects of malnutrition and disease, and from a lack of adequate water and sanitation, WHO Chief Tedros said.

“We cannot stand by with our head in our hands, wishing for an end to the fighting that may well not come – and that means ensuring the protection of people in all of Gaza, including Rafah,” Cameron stated. 

Additionally, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reiterated calls for a cease-fire and urged Hamas to release Israeli captives.

“We continue to stand by Israel’s right to defeat the threat from Hamas terrorists … but the whole of the U.K. is shocked by the bloodshed, and appalled by the killing of brave British heroes who were bringing food to those in need,” the prime minister said. 

Britain under pressure over arms sales to Israel

Thousands of protesters denounce Israel's strikes in the Gaza Strip
Tens of thousands of people have joined pro-Palestinian rallies in the UK

However, pressure mounts on Britain’s government to release its latest legal advice concerning Israel’s conduct during the Gaza conflict, potentially impacting British arms exports.

Former Supreme Court justices, along with over 600 members of the British legal profession, recently called for a cessation of arms sales to Israel, citing concerns of British complicity in Gaza’s crisis.

In 2022, Britain supplied 42 million pounds ($53 million) worth of arms to Israel. While the government decided to continue these exports in December, they remain under scrutiny.

Foreign Secretary Cameron announced on March 8 that a new judgment on the matter is imminent.

A recent poll indicates that a majority of Britons support a ban on weapon sales to Israel, with 56% in favor compared to 17% opposed.

Source: Newsroom

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Last Updated:  May 28, 2024 5:07 PM