Israel could face further weapon sanctions as war fears escalate, hints Foreign Secretary David Lammy
The Labour minister did not comment on the barrage of 150 rockets fired by Hezbollah
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy hinted Israel could face further weapon sanctions as war fears escalated yesterday.
Labour has blocked some British arms shipments amid concerns over the bloodbath in Gaza, said to have claimed 40,000 Palestinian lives and violence against Arabs in Israel’s West Bank.
Mr Lammy said a full arms embargo on Israel would be a “mistake” – but left the door open to further curbs.
The Labour minister did not comment on the overnight barrage of 150 rockets fired by Hezbollah, but hit out at Israeli violence in the occupied territory.
Speaking at a Labour conference fringe meeting, Mr Lammy said: “I’m deeply, deeply worried by the growing violence and settler violence that we see in the West Bank.
“I’m in discussions with G7 partners, particular European partners on that.
“I’m not announcing further sanctions today, but that is kept under close review.”
Israeli president Isaac Herzog earlier yesterday vented his frustration over the UK’s changing Israel policy since Labour won power.
He said: “There is a sense of disappointment in Israel and I have expressed it to my friends.”
The UK has suspended some export licences to Israel over concerns the country is violating international humanitarian law in Gaza.
