David Lammy Clarifies Gaza Blockade Comments
The UK government's position on Israel's actions in Gaza is that they are "at risk" of breaching humanitarian law, and the situation remains a pressing concern, with the need for humanitarian aid and a resolution to the blockade being a top priority, as Lammy and the government continue to navigate the complex issue.
UK Labour MP David Lammy has clarified his comments on Israel's blockade of Gaza, stating he "could have been clearer" about whether it breaches international law, after initially saying it was a "breach" and later calling it a "matter for the court" to decide.
The clarification comes after a row with the UK government, which reconfirmed its position that Israel's actions in Gaza are "at risk" of breaching humanitarian law. Lammy had urged Israel to allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza, calling the current situation "unacceptable". His initial comments sparked a debate, with Downing Street rejecting his claim that Israel has broken international law by blocking aid to Gaza.
A spokesperson for the Prime Minister stated that Israel is "at risk" of breaching humanitarian law, a shift from Lammy's earlier assertion that the country had definitely broken the law. The UK government has emphasized that it is not an international court and that judgments on such matters should be made by courts, not the government. This rebuke comes after Lammy told the Commons that Israel's actions in Gaza are a breach of international law, a statement that could have implications for the UK's relationship with the government of Benjamin Netanyahu.
The situation in Gaza remains a pressing concern, with the need for humanitarian aid and a resolution to the blockade being a top priority. The UK government's stance on the issue is being closely watched, and Lammy's comments have highlighted the complexity and sensitivity of the situation.