In a major diplomatic move, the United Kingdom has suspended its free trade agreement negotiations with Israel, citing deep concern over Israel’s recent military escalation in Gaza. The decision came as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his shock over the renewed violence.
British Foreign Secretary David Lammy criticized the Israeli operation, stating it undermines efforts to secure the release of remaining hostages and exacerbates the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He also urged Israel to lift the aid blockade and denounced the rise of extremism within parts of the Israeli government.
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“We cannot overlook this new wave of violence—it contradicts the fundamental principles of our bilateral relations,” Lammy told the UK Parliament.
“This is not only unacceptable but also goes against the values of the British public. As a result, we are suspending free trade talks with the current Israeli administration,” he added.
The UK also summoned the Israeli ambassador and imposed additional sanctions on Israeli settlers involved in violence in the occupied West Bank.
