Britain: Support for Israel is 'not unconditional'

David Cameron, the UK Foreign Secretary, stated on Sunday, just days after an Israeli airstrike that resulted in the deaths of seven aid workers, including three Britons, that Britain's support for Israel depends on adherence to international humanitarian law. Cameron wrote in the Sunday Times: 'Our support is not unconditional. We expect such a proud and successful democracy (Israel) to comply with international humanitarian law, even when faced with challenges.' According to Reuters, the UK government has been a staunch ally of Israel since Hamas's attack on southern Israel on October 7, which initiated Israel's war to eliminate this militant Islamist group. However, Cameron has sharpened his tone in recent months due to the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. On Sunday, Cameron warned that if Israel does not allow more aid, there is a risk of mass starvation in the Palestinian region of Gaza. On Saturday, the UK announced that as part of an international effort, it would provide a naval ship to send aid. Rishi Sunak, the UK Prime Minister, reiterated his request on Sunday to the Palestinian group, which is listed as a terrorist organization by various countries, for the release of Israeli hostages and an immediate halt to hostilities. He stated that Britain 'stands by Israel's right to defeat the threat of Hamas terrorists,' but the entire UK is shocked by this bloodshed and horrified by the killing of brave British heroes who were bringing food to those in need. The UK government is also under pressure to publish its latest legal advice regarding Israel's conduct in the Gaza war, which could potentially affect British arms exports.