Keir Starmer has criticized the recent airstrikes by Israel on Hamas leaders in Qatar as “entirely unacceptable” during a meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog. Following the discussions, a spokesperson from Downing Street denounced the bombings as a “blatant violation” and highlighted the dire situation of the manmade famine in Gaza. The Israeli military’s action in targeting top Hamas officials in Doha on Tuesday, while they were engaged in ceasefire negotiations, had sparked widespread outrage.
In a statement post-meeting, a Downing Street representative conveyed Starmer’s strong disapproval of Israel’s actions in Doha, labeling them as a clear infringement on a valued ally’s sovereignty and a hindrance to achieving the desired peace in the region. Starmer emphasized the urgent need for Israel to alter its course regarding Gaza by allowing aid to enter and ceasing offensive operations to prevent the worsening of the manmade famine. Additionally, both leaders agreed on the necessity of releasing hostages separated from their families by Hamas nearly two years ago.
During Prime Minister’s Questions, the Prime Minister criticized the strikes as a violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and unhelpful in the pursuit of peace. He condemned Israel’s actions, stating that they undermine peace efforts. The Prime Minister also expressed support and solidarity with the Emir of Qatar in his commitment to seeking a diplomatic solution for a ceasefire and a two-state resolution.
In response to criticism, Foreign Office minister Hamish Falconer downplayed suggestions that the UK had given a special reception to the Israeli president. Falconer clarified that President Herzog’s visit was private, and hence, not indicative of a grand welcome.
After the meeting, President Herzog characterized the discussions as a robust exchange between allies, acknowledging the challenges faced by both democracies in countering jihadist threats.