Over 800 Former UK Judges Urge Israel UN Suspension Amid Gaza Conflict

More than 800 UK legal experts, including former Supreme Court justices, have urged Prime Minister Keir Starmer to impose sanctions on Israel and consider suspending it from the United Nations amid allegations of genocide in Gaza. Despite the UK government suspending free trade negotiations with Israel in response to its military actions in Gaza, the UK's trade envoy Ian Austin recently visited Haifa to promote trade, raising questions about the consistency of Britain's policy. Foreign Secretary David Lammy condemned Israel's military assault and settler violence, describing the actions as "morally unjustifiable" and "monstrous," while also announcing new sanctions and summoning the Israeli ambassador. Critics like MP Zarah Sultana argue that the UK government's response, including the trade talks suspension, is insufficient and delayed, especially given continued arms supplies to Israel. The UK government's stance reflects a tension between condemning Israeli actions and maintaining established economic and diplomatic ties. Observers note the mixed messaging undermines the UK's credibility in addressing the Gaza conflict.