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."
Read next
Labour faces key challenge as voting begins in England, Scotland and Wales
Polling has opened across England, Scotland and Wales in a series of local, mayoral and parliamentary contests – the biggest electoral test Keir Starmer and the Labour government have faced since the 2024 general election.
As millions of people across Great Britain go to the polls on Thursday, party leaders are
Andy Burnham's Green Party Appearance Fuels Labour Backlash
Andy Burnham’s choice to join a progressive rally featuring leading Green and Liberal Democrat figures has provoked criticism from certain Labour MPs, who claim he is weakening their local election message.
The Greater Manchester mayor, regarded as one of the leading contenders to challenge Keir Starmer for the Labour
Scottish mother stranded abroad after newborn breaches UK dual citizenship rules
A British woman from Aberdeen has been stranded abroad after her 11‑month‑old baby was prevented from boarding a flight because of new rules regarding dual nationals.
Sarah Schloegl was refused board on a Ryanair flight from Alicante last week after she went to Spain for a short break