Labour MP Thornberry says UK government failed Palestinian people
Emily Thornberry, the Labour chair of the foreign affairs select committee, stated that the UK government has let the Palestinian people down and failed to make it economically impossible for Israel to continue its actions in the West Bank and Gaza. Speaking at a Westminster event convened by Medical Aid for Palestinians and the Council on Arab-British Understanding, she criticized her own government for lacking ambition and criticized Donald Trump for declaring a ceasefire in Gaza and then walking away. Thornberry noted that the UK recognized Palestine as a state more than eight months ago but said nothing further has been done toward a two-state solution. She pointed out that over 72,000 Palestinians have been killed, and over 700 have been killed since Trump’s ceasefire announcement. She also highlighted that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently announced Israel’s intention to take over 70% of Gaza, calling the sense of impunity staggering. Thornberry urged the UK to take steps such as banning imports from illegal settlements and placing sanctions on those involved, and to revive the group of states that backed Palestinian recognition in 2025.
What’s reported
Emily Thornberry said the UK government has failed the Palestinian people.
She accused her own government of lacking ambition and Trump of declaring a ceasefire then walking away.
The UK recognized Palestine as a state more than eight months ago, but Thornberry says no further steps have been taken.
Thornberry stated over 72,000 Palestinians have been killed, and over 700 have died since Trump’s ceasefire.
Netanyahu announced Israel intends to take over 70% of Gaza.
She called for banning imports from illegal settlements, placing sanctions, and reviving the 2025 recognition group.
The event was convened by Medical Aid for Palestinians and the Council on Arab-British Understanding.
Open questions
What specific actions the UK government will take in response to Thornberry’s criticism.
What the UK government’s formal response to the ICJ advisory opinion is or will be.
Whether the UK will revive the group of states that backed Palestinian recognition in 2025.
Key figures
Emily Thornberry, Labour chair of the foreign affairs select committee
Donald Trump, former US president
Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli prime minister
Sources: The Guardian
