by
International Desk, May 20, 2025 : The United Kingdom has suspended trade negotiations with Israel due to renewed atrocities in the occupied Gaza Strip, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced on Tuesday, May 20. The decision follows Israel’s ongoing blockade and actions in Gaza, which Lammy described as “intolerable” and “appalling.”
Speaking in the UK Parliament, Lammy revealed that discussions on a new free trade agreement with Israel have been halted. He stated, “We are suspending new free trade talks with the Israeli government. The bilateral roadmap cooperation planned for 2030 will be reviewed, necessitated by the actions of the Netanyahu government.”
Lammy criticized Israel’s plans to control Gaza, noting that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has restricted aid to the bare minimum needed for survival. “Yesterday, fewer than 10 aid trucks entered Gaza,” he said, highlighting the dire humanitarian situation caused by an 11-week blockade.
The UK has also summoned Israel’s ambassador to London, Tzipi Hotovely, to address the crisis. Lammy instructed Middle East Minister Hamish Falconer to convey that the blockade is “cruel and indefensible.” Additionally, the UK imposed sanctions on several illegal settlers in the West Bank, including Zohar Sabah, accused of seizing Palestinian land and intimidating locals, and Daniela Weiss, involved in establishing illegal settlements. The United States had previously sanctioned Sabah in November 2024.
In his parliamentary address, Lammy emphasized, “The world is watching, and history will judge Israel.” He condemned Israel’s actions, including blocking aid, escalating conflict, and ignoring allies, stating, “These are not defensible. The two-state solution is the only path to lasting peace.” Addressing Israelis directly, he added, “Your government’s actions in Gaza are damaging our relationship and tarnishing Israel’s global image, isolating it further.”
AI/MR
