The United Kingdom has joined 24 other nations in strongly criticising Israel for its actions in Gaza, condemning the deprivation of basic human dignity for Palestinians and calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy, alongside counterparts from Australia, Canada, France and others, urged the Israeli government to lift restrictions on humanitarian aid.
The coordinated statement described the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as having reached unprecedented levels, with growing international concern over the continued civilian suffering and obstruction of relief efforts.
Ministers across these nations specifically denounced proposals by Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz to relocate 600,000 Palestinians to a so-called humanitarian zone in Rafah, an area already severely damaged by ongoing Israeli bombardment. The plan was labelled wholly unacceptable and contrary to international humanitarian standards.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the situation in Gaza as intolerable, reaffirming the UK’s long-term commitment to recognising a Palestinian state when it would most effectively support peace in the region. He highlighted the UK’s objection to forced displacement and restrictions that deny Palestinians access to essential resources such as food, water, and shelter.
Israeli forces have intensified military operations in Gaza, particularly targeting Deir al-Balah, a critical hub for aid distribution. The renewed attacks follow one of the deadliest days in recent months, with over 85 Palestinians killed while attempting to access food aid near the Israeli border. The World Food Programme confirmed many victims had gathered to receive flour from a humanitarian convoy before being fired upon by Israeli forces.
Starmer emphasised the UK’s firm opposition to actions that target civilians, including the use of military force against those queuing for aid or being forced into segregated living zones. He described such measures as unjustifiable and deeply damaging to peace efforts.
Pressure is mounting on the UK government to formally recognise a Palestinian state, with senior MPs, including Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Emily Thornberry, urging immediate diplomatic recognition as other Western nations prepare similar moves.
In a joint statement, the 25 foreign ministers demanded Israel allow unhindered access for humanitarian organisations and the United Nations, criticising what they called a dangerous and unstable aid delivery system that leaves millions at risk of starvation. They condemned the ongoing loss of life and described the Israeli approach as depriving Palestinians of fundamental dignity and survival.
The ministers described as horrifying the deaths of hundreds of Palestinians while attempting to obtain aid and asserted that the continued denial of essential humanitarian support is unacceptable under international law. They called for the global community to unite in securing an unconditional and lasting ceasefire, stressing that further violence will only deepen the crisis.
Addressing Parliament, Lammy sharply criticised Israel’s justification for strikes on civilians, especially children. He rejected the proposed forced relocation to Rafah, warning it would breach humanitarian law and worsen the crisis. Lammy reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to a two-state solution, adding that any future Palestinian state must exclude extremist influence and support long-term regional security.
