UK Prime Minister Calls Israeli Strikes on Gaza "Wrong" and Urges Global Cooperation for Palestinian Land Protection

UK Prime Minister Calls Israeli Strikes on Gaza "Wrong" and Urges Global Cooperation for Palestinian Land Protection

London, April 9, 2025 (Reuters) – British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated on Tuesday that the resumption of Israeli attacks on Gaza was a "wrong" move, and he labeled the occupation of Palestinian land as "illegal." He called for global cooperation in protecting Palestinian land.

In response to questions in Parliament, Starmer said, "I believe this occupation is illegal, as we have said before, and this has been the official policy for a long time." He further added that sufficient aid has not been flowing into Gaza for a long time, stating, "Resuming hostilities is a mistake, in my view."

He continued, "We need to return to a ceasefire, send aid, and free the hostages."

Starmer also mentioned, "We must initiate a process towards a two-state solution, which is the only guarantee for long-term peace."

Since October 2023, more than 50,800 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza.

In November 2023, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.

Additionally, Israel has faced charges of genocide at the International Court.

Comments on US Tariffs

Starmer also commented on former US President Donald Trump's decision to impose tariffs on various countries, stating, "This is very challenging for us and the world."

He mentioned he was "frustrated" by the tariffs and believed they were not good for either the US economy or the global economy. However, he added, "We should have alternatives ready and be prepared to take countermeasures if necessary."

Regarding the steel industry, Starmer said, "We don’t want to lose our steel production capacity."

He noted, "The world is changing in front of us," and referred to it as a "temporary phase."

Starmer further said, "Two important tasks need to be done. First, we must make our economy stronger and more successful, and second, we must engage in discussions about reducing trade barriers with countries like ours."