AhlulBayt News Agency: Britain has suspended free trade negotiations with Israel following Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s strong reaction to the escalating military offensive and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
According to IRNA, in addition to halting trade talks, the British government recalled its ambassador from Tel Aviv and imposed further sanctions on settlers in the occupied West Bank.
The Israeli military launched a new operation last week, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declaring that Israel intends to take full control of Gaza. Since March, Israel has blocked the entry of vital supplies, including medical aid, food, and fuel, prompting warnings from international experts about the growing risk of famine.
British Foreign Minister David Lammy criticized Israel’s military actions, stating that force is not a solution for securing the release of Israeli prisoners. He urged Tel Aviv to lift its blockade on humanitarian aid and condemned what he described as "extremism" within the Israeli cabinet.
“We cannot stand by in the face of this new deterioration. It is incompatible with the principles that underpin our bilateral relationship,” Lammy told Parliament. “Frankly, it’s an affront to the values of the British people. Therefore, today, I’m announcing that we have suspended negotiations with this Israeli government on a new free trade agreement.”
In a joint statement issued with France and Canada, Britain denounced Israel’s growing military offensive in Gaza and called for an immediate end to restrictions on humanitarian aid. The three nations also warned that further actions could follow if Israel continues its operations.
The British government has been under increasing public pressure regarding its stance on Israel, with frequent protests condemning the UK’s arms sales and alleged complicity in the Gaza crisis.
....................
End/ 257
Your Comment