Jakarta, ThedailyID — UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, September 22.
Burnham said too many people had died in Gaza, including children. He also said humanitarian aid entering the territory remained insufficient.
“Far too many people have died, including so many children. Far too little aid is getting in. And it has gone on for far too long,” Burnham said, as reported on Wednesday, September 23.
He also said the UK would not stand by as the humanitarian situation worsened. According to Burnham, the ongoing situation also threatens prospects for a two-state solution.
Burnham then criticized Israel’s plans for the E1 settlement project in the West Bank. He said the project could divide the West Bank and make a viable Palestinian state more difficult to achieve.
“Last month, Israel issued tenders for the construction of the E1 mega settlement, which would drive a wedge through the West Bank and threaten to put a viable Palestinian state beyond reach,” Burnham said.
The UK government has already announced measures targeting Israeli settlements. These include banning trade in goods from settlements and imposing sanctions on people involved in settlement construction.
Burnham said the UK wants the violence and deaths to end. He also reiterated support for Israelis and Palestinians living alongside each other in peace and security.
At the same time, Burnham condemned Hamas and described the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel as horrific. He also said Britain stands with Israel and Jewish people facing threats from Iran.
The UK government’s position on settlements has drawn attention during Burnham’s first major international engagement as prime minister. London, France and Canada previously said settlement expansion in the West Bank threatens the two-state solution.
The issue also featured in Burnham’s meeting with US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. Trump was asked about the UK’s decision to restrict trade with Israeli settlements and referred the question to Burnham.
Burnham defended the UK’s approach, saying London acted after Israel advanced plans for the E1 settlement project. The UK has said its measures aim to protect the possibility of a two-state solution.
