London/Paris/Ottawa, May 19 – The United Kingdom, France, and Canada on Monday condemned Israel’s expanded military operations across Gaza, warning that the humanitarian toll was intolerable and calling for immediate steps toward a ceasefire and the recognition of a Palestinian state.
In a joint statement following Israel’s announcement on Sunday of what it described as an “extensive” military campaign throughout the Gaza Strip, the three Western governments said Israel’s pledge to allow only limited food aid was “wholly inadequate” and fell far short of meeting urgent humanitarian needs.
“We condemn the abhorrent language used recently by members of the Israeli Government,” the statement read, referring to remarks suggesting that Gazan civilians may begin relocating due to the destruction. “Permanent forced displacement is a breach of international humanitarian law.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that Israel would maintain control over the entirety of Gaza and that the decision to permit a “basic quantity” of food aid followed pressure from U.S. lawmakers. Israel launched its expanded operation on Sunday, more than seven months after the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack that killed hundreds in southern Israel.
“We have always supported Israel’s right to defend itself against terrorism,” the statement added. “But this escalation is wholly disproportionate.” The countries reiterated their demand for Hamas to release all remaining hostages still held in Gaza since the October 7 assault.
While expressing solidarity with Israel’s security concerns, the three nations said they would “not stand by” while Netanyahu’s government carried out what they described as “egregious actions.” The statement warned of “further concrete actions in response,” though no specific measures were outlined.
U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, speaking at a joint press conference with EU leaders in London, described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as “unacceptable” and said Western allies were working to coordinate their response. Asked whether Israel’s actions could constitute genocide, Starmer did not give a direct answer but said the situation warranted urgent international attention.
The countries also condemned ongoing settlement expansion in the West Bank and signaled that targeted sanctions could be used in response to further Israeli escalations.
The joint statement voiced strong support for ceasefire mediation efforts led by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. It said a cessation of hostilities, the release of hostages, and a long-term political agreement were the only viable path forward.
“A two-state solution remains the only path to a just and lasting peace,” the statement said, adding that the governments were committed to recognizing a Palestinian state in line with the goals of a June 18 peace conference in New York, co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed the call for de-escalation during a visit to London on Monday, warning that humanitarian aid had not reached Gaza in two months.
“Humanitarian aid must never be politicised,” she said. “We are convinced that the only solution is the two-state solution. This needs, among others, also a functioning Palestinian Authority,” she added, referring to financial and logistical support earmarked by Brussels.
