We, the undersigned, are gravely concerned by the ongoing violence in Gaza, the intensifying conflict in the Middle East, and the United Kingdom’s continued military and economic support for Israel. For 75 years, the Palestinian people have suffered under conditions that many describe as an apartheid regime, with ongoing human rights abuses and war crimes committed in Gaza. In recent months, this violence has escalated to catastrophic levels, leading to a dire humanitarian crisis.

As citizens of a nation that values human rights, justice, and peace, we call upon the UK government to immediately:

1. Impose Economic Sanctions on Israel: In the same manner the UK sanctioned Russia for its illegal invasion of Ukraine, we must hold Israel accountable for its violations of international law, including its prolonged occupation and the targeting of civilians in Gaza. Economic sanctions are a powerful tool to pressure the Israeli government to end its actions that perpetuate violence and instability in the region.

2. Cease Arms Supplies and Military Aid to Israel: The UK must immediately stop supplying weapons, technology, and any form of military aid to Israel. Continuing to arm a nation engaged in widespread violations of human rights and war crimes is unacceptable. By halting arms sales, we send a clear message that the UK does not condone the killing of innocent civilians or the violation of international humanitarian law.

3. Demand an Immediate Ceasefire and Negotiated Peace: We urge the UK government to actively demand an immediate ceasefire and push for diplomatic solutions. The escalation of hostilities between Israel, Gaza, Iran, Lebanon, and other regional actors threatens to plunge the entire Middle East into war, with disastrous global consequences. Given Iran’s alliance with Russia, further escalation could drag global powers into this conflict, risking a wider war that the world cannot afford.

4. Hold Israel Accountable for War Crimes and Human Rights Violations: It is imperative that Israel be held to the same international standards as any other nation. The persistent war crimes, including the collective punishment of Gaza’s population, the disproportionate use of force, and the targeting of civilian infrastructure, must be condemned. The UK should work with the international community to ensure accountability through the International Criminal Court and other mechanisms.

The UK has consistently advocated for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law on the world stage. To continue supporting a government that has, for decades, engaged in policies of occupation, ethnic discrimination, and systematic oppression is a betrayal of these values. The parallels to other instances of international aggression, such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, are clear. Just as we responded to Russian aggression with sanctions and a firm stance, we must do the same here.

Failure to act now risks not only the continued devastation of Gaza but also the escalation of a broader war in the Middle East. With Iran, a key Russian ally, now involved, this conflict could spiral into a global catastrophe involving major world powers. It is crucial that the UK plays a role in preventing this and seeks to foster peace, stability, and respect for international law.

We call on you to act swiftly, decisively, and with the moral clarity that this situation demands.