UK Suspends Free Trade Talks with Israel Over Gaza War Escalation

Watan-British Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced on Tuesday the suspension of negotiations for a new free trade agreement with Israel.

Speaking before Parliament, Lammy addressed Israel’s escalating attacks on the Gaza Strip.

He said:“We cannot remain bystanders in the face of this deteriorating situation. It contradicts the principles that underpin our bilateral relationship (with Israel) and is an affront to the values of the British people.”

He continued:“That’s why I’m announcing today the suspension of our ongoing negotiations with the Israeli government over a new free trade agreement. The actions of Netanyahu’s government have made this decision necessary.”

He added:“But the way the war in Gaza is being conducted is damaging our relationship with your government. If Israel continues this military offensive as it threatens to do, and fails to allow unhindered humanitarian aid, we will take additional steps in response.”

The announcement came after UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer increased his criticism of Israel earlier in the day, stating that the level of suffering among children in Gaza was “utterly unbearable” and renewing his call for a ceasefire.

Speaking before the UK Parliament, Starmer said:“I want to state today that we are horrified by Israel’s escalation.”

Israel Defiant After UK, France, Canada Condemn Gaza War Conduct

These actions followed a joint condemnation issued a day earlier by the UK, France, and Canada over Israel’s handling of the war in Gaza and its policies in the West Bank.

In response to the UK’s decision, Israel said on Tuesday that international pressure would not alter its stance. Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oren Marmorstein stated:“If the British government, due to its obsession with anti-Israel sentiment and domestic political calculations, is willing to harm the British economy, that is its right.”

He added:“External pressure will not divert Israel from its path to defend its existence and security against enemies seeking its destruction.”