The leaders of the United Kingdom, Canada, and France have issued a joint warning to Israel, threatening sanctions if it does not cease its renewed military offensive in Gaza and lift restrictions on humanitarian aid. The Israeli military announced the commencement of a new operation on Friday, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating that Israel aims to take control of the entire Gaza Strip. International experts have already warned of an impending famine in the region.
In a joint statement, the British government condemned Israel’s denial of essential humanitarian assistance to the civilian population, describing it as unacceptable and potentially in violation of international humanitarian law. The statement also expressed opposition to any attempts to expand settlements in the West Bank and indicated that the three countries would not hesitate to take further action, including targeted sanctions, if Israel does not alter its course.
In response, Prime Minister Netanyahu accused the leaders of London, Ottawa, and Paris of rewarding the October 7 genocidal attack on Israel and inviting more such atrocities. He emphasized that Israel will defend itself by just means until total victory is achieved, reiterating Israel’s conditions to end the war, which include the release of the remaining hostages and the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip.
Since the start of March, Israel has blocked the entry of medical, food, and fuel supplies into Gaza in an effort to pressure Hamas into freeing the hostages taken during the October 7, 2023, attack. The United Kingdom, France, and Canada have criticized this blockade, calling it a violation of international humanitarian law and urging Israel to allow the free flow of aid into Gaza.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has deteriorated significantly, with Gaza’s Health Ministry reporting over 53,000 Palestinians killed in the ongoing conflict. Humanitarian organizations and 21 countries, including the UK, France, and Canada, have criticized the limited aid as insufficient and urged Israel to fully reopen access and cease military actions. Critics have raised ethical concerns about the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation’s aid distribution plan, perceiving it as a mechanism for forced population displacement.
The United Kingdom, France, and Canada have expressed their support for efforts led by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. They have also reiterated their commitment to recognizing a Palestinian state as part of a two-state solution to the conflict.
Hamas has welcomed the joint statement, describing the stance as “an important step” in the right direction toward restoring the principles of international law.
The conflict, which began with the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack, has resulted in significant casualties on both sides and continues to strain international relations.
