The United Kingdom, France, and Canada have issued a stern warning to Israel, threatening “concrete actions” should it continue what they described as an “egregious” expansion of military operations in Gaza.

In a rare joint statement, UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney urged the Israeli government to halt its military campaign and immediately permit the delivery of humanitarian aid into the besieged territory.

Since March 2, no food, fuel, or medical supplies have been allowed into Gaza — a blockade the United Nations earlier called devastating for the Palestinian population. 

Israel, however, has defended its strategy. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the leaders' joint appeal as offering a “huge prize” to Hamas, the militant group Israel holds responsible for launching the conflict.

Netanyahu later announced that a “basic amount of food” would be allowed into Gaza after the 11-week blockade, but reiterated Israel’s plan to take full control of the strip. 

The Western leaders called this response “wholly inadequate,” warning that the denial of essential aid may breach international humanitarian law.

They also condemned inflammatory remarks made by some Israeli officials, particularly comments suggesting civilians may begin relocating. 

“Permanent forced displacement is a clear violation of international law,” the statement read.

UN relief coordinator Tom Fletcher echoed the concern, saying the aid reaching Gaza was only a fraction of what is desperately needed.

While reaffirming Israel’s right to defend itself, the trio emphasized the response must remain proportionate. 

They also urged Hamas to release the hostages taken during the October 7 attacks, which left 1,200 Israelis dead and 251 abducted. 

According to Hamas-run authorities, more than 53,000 Palestinians have been killed in the Israeli campaign.

The leaders reiterated their support for a ceasefire and a two-state solution.

Source: BBC

SMS/