Prime Minister Keir Starmer's newly elected Labour government appears to be recalibrating Britain's approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict, marking a departure from the previous administration's policies.
In a significant move, Starmer's government is expected to drop a legal challenge initiated by former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's administration. This challenge had sought to delay the International Criminal Court (ICC) from potentially issuing an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over alleged war crimes in Gaza.
Starmer's recent diplomatic engagements have also signaled a shift in tone. In a call with Palestinian Authority leader Mahmoud Abbas, the British Prime Minister affirmed Palestinians' "undeniable right" to an independent state. He also addressed the "ongoing suffering and devastating loss of life" in Gaza, emphasizing the humanitarian crisis.
In a separate conversation with Netanyahu, Starmer stressed the "clear and urgent" need for an immediate ceasefire and reiterated his support for a two-state solution, including financial stability for the Palestinian Authority.
The appointment of David Lammy as Foreign Secretary has raised further questions about the UK's future foreign policy direction. Lammy has announced plans to reinstate funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), a move that has sparked debate due to past allegations of UNRWA's collaboration with Hamas.
These developments suggest a recalibration of Britain's stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict under Starmer's leadership; however, the long-term implications of these policy shifts remain to be seen.
* Jewish Breaking News and The Conversation contributed to this report.