Over 800 UK-based legal experts, including former Supreme Court justices, have urged the UK government to employ all available measures to halt the Gaza conflict. Their letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer advocates for reviewing UK-Israel trade relations and imposing sanctions, including travel bans, on Israeli ministers.
The letter, signed by prominent legal figures such as former Supreme Court Justices Lord Wilson and Lord Sumption, alleges that Israel’s blockade and military offensive constitute genocide in Gaza, a claim vehemently denied by Israel and currently under review by the International Court of Justice. The signatories cite the high number of Palestinian casualties as evidence.
Israel’s denial of genocide allegations follows increased international criticism of its military offensive and the ongoing blockade, which has been in place for extended periods.
This legal action follows a joint statement from the UK, France, and Canada condemning Israel’s actions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu countered these criticisms, accusing the allied nations of siding with Hamas and emphasizing the ongoing hostage situation.
The joint condemnation comes after the UK suspended trade talks with Israel, summoned its ambassador, and imposed sanctions on West Bank settlers. Netanyahu’s declaration of intent to displace Gaza residents further fueled international concern.
The legal experts’ detailed 36-page letter asserts that Israel’s actions constitute grave violations of international law, including the Palestinians’ right to self-determination. They highlight the insufficient humanitarian aid reaching Gaza as a contributing factor to the alleged genocide.
The letter emphasizes the UK’s legal obligation to prevent and punish genocide, criticizing the government’s response as inadequate while acknowledging recent indications of stronger action. Proposed remedies include financial and immigration sanctions against Israeli ministers and a review of existing trade ties, including the suspension of the UK-Israel 2030 Roadmap.
Further recommendations include adherence to International Criminal Court arrest warrants, particularly concerning Netanyahu’s alleged war crimes. This letter builds upon previous actions by the group, including raising concerns about UK arms sales to Israel, a matter now subject to High Court review.
The conflict, triggered by a Hamas attack on October 7th, 2023, has resulted in a devastating loss of life in Gaza. International pressure continues to mount, with Germany and Finland demanding immediate humanitarian access to Gaza and Sweden summoning the Israeli ambassador to express its concern. These developments highlight the growing international condemnation of the ongoing conflict.
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