Tue Jul 08 15:41:42 UTC 2025: ## UK Threatens Further Action Against Israel Over Gaza Aid Failures

**London, UK** – Top British diplomat David Lammy has sharply criticized the US-backed aid distribution mechanism in Gaza, stating it is “not doing a good job” and warning that the United Kingdom is prepared to take further action against Israel if a ceasefire deal to alleviate the humanitarian crisis does not materialize.

Speaking before Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee on Tuesday, Lammy, the Foreign Secretary, voiced strong concerns over the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a group backed by the US and Israel tasked with distributing aid. “We’ve been very clear that we don’t support the aid foundation that has been set up,” he stated, citing widespread starvation and loss of life within the territory.

Lammy’s comments come amid reports of hundreds of Palestinians being killed by Israeli fire while seeking assistance provided by the GHF.

When questioned about potential measures against Israel should the “intolerable” situation persist, Lammy affirmed, “Yes, we will.” This follows previous actions by the UK, including sanctions against Israeli government ministers involved in inciting violence in the West Bank, suspension of free trade agreement talks due to the Gaza blockade, and a halt to some arms exports to Israel.

While defending the UK’s existing actions, including its support for UNRWA, Lammy acknowledged that current efforts are “not sufficient” to address the crisis. He also condemned settler violence and illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank.

Despite the UK’s permanent seat on the UN Security Council, its significant trade relationship with Israel, and its involvement in surveillance flights over Gaza, Lammy downplayed the UK’s overall influence in the region, stating it is “but one actor.”

Critics point out that the Labour government has not yet recognized Palestine as a state, a step taken by several other European nations. Lammy explained that the UK desires its recognition of Palestine to be part of a concrete move towards a two-state solution.

However, Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Emily Thornberry cautioned that continued delays in recognizing Palestine could result in “nothing left to recognize” given ongoing settlement expansion and annexation threats. She urged the UK to recognize Palestine and then focus on ensuring its practical implementation.

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