Sir Keir Starmer is gearing up for a critical meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog in the UK, following a stern condemnation of Israel’s recent strike on Hamas leaders in Qatar. Starmer has voiced concerns over the attack, labelling it a “flagrant violation of Qatar’s sovereignty” that threatens to ignite further conflict in the already volatile Middle East.
On Tuesday, the Israeli military targeted Hamas leaders in Doha, which has been described as an effort to undermine peace talks aimed at achieving a ceasefire in Gaza. The attack, which resulted in the deaths of five Hamas members and a Qatari security officer, has sparked international backlash, with even US President Donald Trump distancing himself from the decision on social media.
As tensions soar, Starmer is adamant about discussing the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza with Herzog. Downing Street affirmed Starmer’s intention to demand action from Israel to alleviate the ongoing suffering. Despite calls from within his party to hold Israel accountable for alleged war crimes, No. 10 has refrained from making accusations of genocide against the Israeli government.
Civic opposition is evident on the streets of the UK, with protesters rallying against Herzog’s visit, brandishing signs and chanting messages condemning the Israeli president. Meanwhile, former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has publicly declared Herzog should face justice at the Hague rather than be welcomed in London.
Adding another layer to the diplomatic drama, Starmer has pledged support for a Palestinian state, reiterating this commitment during a meeting with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. With a UN Security Council emergency meeting on the horizon, the world watches as leaders strive for peace and accountability amidst escalating tensions.