British PM warns that Israeli settlement plans threaten viability of two-state solution

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham addressed the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, condemning Israel's actions in Gaza and the West Bank. He warned that ongoing settlement expansion poses a threat to the viability of a two-state solution. Burnham reiterated Britain's strong condemnation of the October 7 Hamas attacks and support for Israel and Jewish people worldwide against Iran's threats.

However, he emphasized that these actions do not justify Israel's conduct in Gaza or the West Bank. He lamented the immense loss of life, particularly among children, and the insufficient aid reaching the region, which has persisted far too long. Burnham denounced Israel's recent approval for constructing the E1 mega settlement, asserting that it would sever Palestinian territorial continuity and imperil the prospects of a viable Palestinian state.

He declared that such actions cannot be permitted and that Britain has responded by imposing trade and goods bans with illegal settlements, recognizing the illegitimacy of the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territory, and sanctioning those involved in settlement construction. This stance is part of a broader diplomatic shift, following an announcement by 11 countries, including Canada, France, Ireland, and Nordic nations, to ban settlement imports in response to violent settler actions.

In response, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar announced diplomatic countermeasures against London, including closing the British Consulate in East Jerusalem, expelling British personnel responsible for the Gaza cease-fire, and banning 12 British officials and public figures from entering Israel. Burnham stressed the urgency of ending the suffering and death, and the need for Israeli and Palestinian people to coexist peacefully and securely.

He cautioned against political empty promises, urging that the best hope for peace and stability for both nations hangs in the balance. Burnham warned that if words about a two-state solution are not matched by action, trust will erode further, and enemies will exploit the resulting alienation.