The UK foreign secretary expressed deep distress over the "horrific" targeting of Palestinians seeking food by Israeli forces, warning that further measures could follow if the conflict continues.
Israeli airstrikes and ground operations in Gaza this week struck Deir al-Balah, a key center for aid distribution. Recent military actions resulted in one of the deadliest periods in nearly two years, with Gaza’s civil defense reporting at least 93 Palestinians killed by Israeli gunfire while waiting for food supplies.
In an interview with BBC Radio 4’s *Today* program, David Lammy stated that while he wished the UK could independently stop the fighting, its influence was limited. He denied claims that British arms licenses or RAF surveillance flights contributed to military actions in Gaza, despite criticism from rights organizations.
The UK has joined 27 nations, including Australia, Canada, and France, in condemning Israel for denying Palestinians "basic dignity" and demanding an end to restrictions on humanitarian aid. They warned that civilian suffering had reached unprecedented levels.
Groups such as Amnesty International dismissed the statement as ineffective, insisting all arms transfers—including components for F-35 jets—must cease.
When questioned about over 300 active arms licenses, Lammy responded: "We’ve suspended sales applicable to Gaza. I’m confident we are not violating international humanitarian law. This is a serious responsibility I uphold."
He acknowledged the UK alone could not stop the conflict, stressing cooperation with allies was necessary. "I regret that unilateral action isn’t possible. If the war persists, further steps will be taken."
Defending the UK’s stance, he added: "Our efforts exceed many governments’, but until peace is achieved, we’ve fallen short."
Lammy denied providing intelligence to Israel via RAF surveillance: "We do not assist in military operations—it would be unacceptable."
Speaking to *BBC Breakfast*, he reiterated his horror at images of Palestinians shot while seeking food: "Diplomacy aside, watching innocent children killed this way is unbearable."
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