The United Kingdom has announced an extra £8.5 million in humanitarian aid for Gaza, following Israel’s declaration of plans to widen its military operations and tighten control over the territory.
Development minister Baroness Jenny Chapman stated that the funding aims to address urgent humanitarian needs in Gaza, but stressed that it will only be effective if Israel allows a significant increase in aid deliveries.
She condemned the current delays at border crossings, where large quantities of supplies remain blocked, and urged the Israeli government to ensure safe and secure entry for humanitarian assistance.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has warned of severe hunger among Gaza’s 2.1 million residents, worsening access to water during an intense heatwave, and persistent obstacles to aid distribution.
The UK’s announcement comes after Foreign Secretary David Lammy joined ministers from Australia, Italy, Germany and New Zealand in condemning Israeli plans to escalate the conflict by taking control of Gaza City. Israel’s government has outlined objectives including the demilitarisation of the Gaza Strip, permanent Israeli security control, and the creation of an alternative civil administration that excludes both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority.
In a joint statement, the foreign ministers warned that such measures risk breaching international law, stressing that any attempts at annexation or settlement expansion would be unlawful. They reaffirmed their support for a negotiated two-state solution, which they described as the only path to lasting peace, security and dignity for both Israelis and Palestinians. The ministers also insisted on the total demilitarisation of Hamas and its removal from governance in Gaza, with the Palestinian Authority playing a central role in administration.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer criticised Israel’s plans, calling for a ceasefire, a major increase in humanitarian aid, the release of all hostages by Hamas, and renewed negotiations towards a political resolution.
A United Nations Security Council meeting on Israel’s proposals, initially set for Saturday, has been rescheduled to Sunday at 3pm UK time.
