The Palestinians’ top envoy to the UK, Husam Zomlot, has accused the British government of “double standards and hypocrisy” in its policies towards them. Zomlot specifically criticized Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for opposing an application at the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of genocide in the war in Gaza. He stated that the UK’s stance has caused “reputational damage” in the Middle East. However, Zomlot welcomed a recent decision by the government to ban violent Israeli settlers from entering the UK. This move followed a similar plan announced by the US. The envoy believes that this is a significant step, as it is the first time in 75 years that the UK has taken a measure related to sanctions on Israel.
Zomlot also condemned a government bill that bans public bodies from boycotting economic activity with Israel or Israeli settlements. He criticized the inconsistency in the UK’s policy towards Palestine and questioned its stance on Israel’s occupation of the 1967 borders. The envoy also rebuked Prime Minister Sunak for rejecting South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of genocide.
The Palestinians’ top envoy called on the international community to demand an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, stating that it should be the top priority. He accused Israel of causing an “unprecedented manmade humanitarian disaster” in Gaza.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been ongoing for decades, with the settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem being one of the contentious issues. The international community generally considers these settlements to be illegal, although Israel disputes this. The conflict has led to violence and loss of lives on both sides. The UK’s position and actions related to this conflict have been criticized by some for being inconsistent and hypocritical. The Palestinian envoy’s comments reflect concerns about the UK’s double standards in its approach to Israel and international law.
