Israel is facing escalating international criticism following its renewed military offensive in the Gaza Strip. Both the United Kingdom and the European Union announced significant policy shifts on Tuesday, distancing themselves from Israel. The UK paused trade talks and sanctioned West Bank settlers, while the EU declared it would reassess its political and economic ties with Israel due to the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza.
British Foreign Secretary David Lammy called Israel’s actions “morally unjustifiable” and “wholly disproportionate.” British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as “intolerable,” pointing to the bombing of civilians and aid restrictions. These actions follow earlier joint warnings by the UK, France, and Canada threatening sanctions if Israel persists with its offensive and continues blocking humanitarian assistance.
Israel’s Gaza Offensive Continues Amid Aid Shortages and Growing International Sanctions
Israel’s military offensive, launched on May 5, has killed hundreds and involved a prolonged blockade preventing aid from entering Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to seize full control of the Gaza Strip. Although five aid trucks were finally allowed in on Monday, far below the daily 500-truck need, the move has been criticized as insufficient.
Israel Faces Global Rebuke as Gaza Offensive Triggers Sanctions, Aid Warnings, and EU ReviewAustralia joined the chorus of condemnation, urging Israel to fully restore humanitarian access. Foreign Minister Penny Wong denounced offensive remarks by Netanyahu’s government and reaffirmed Australia’s opposition to forced Palestinian displacement. Meanwhile, international agencies, including the UN, emphasized the urgent need to resume large-scale aid to avert mass starvation.
In response to increased settler violence and land grabs in the West Bank, the UK imposed new sanctions on individuals and entities involved in the settler movement. Lammy criticized the acceleration of settlement activity and vowed to continue targeting those responsible for human rights abuses. Israel’s Foreign Ministry condemned these sanctions, arguing they were unjustified and politically motivated.
EU Reviews Israel Ties Over Human Rights and Gaza Faces Starvation Amid Aid Delays
The European Union decided to review its Association Agreement with Israel, citing violations of human rights standards outlined in the agreement. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized that continued Israeli obstruction of humanitarian aid would not be tolerated. Israel responded defensively, accusing the EU of misjudging the situation and ignoring efforts to deliver aid via non-Hamas channels.
The UN reports that one in five people in Gaza are facing starvation due to Israel’s blockade. Aid officials warned that thousands of children are at risk of severe malnutrition. Though Israel claims to be allowing minimal aid to avoid international fallout, agencies like the World Food Programme say the supplies are too little and arriving too slowly to meet urgent needs.
Internally, voices like Israeli general and opposition figure Yair Golan have warned that the country risks becoming a “pariah state.” Despite international pushback, Israel’s military leaders assert that their operations comply with international law. Aid efforts continue to face logistical hurdles, with incoming supplies being delayed by Israeli security checks even after trucks enter Gaza, raising further concern over distribution and access.