Palestinian envoy Husam Zomlot says UK guilty of hypocrisy

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Palestinian Envoy Accuses UK of Double Standards

Husam Zomlot, the Palestinians' top envoy to the UK, has criticized the UK government, alleging "double standards and hypocrisy" in its policies toward Palestine. The envoy specifically targeted PM Rishi Sunak for opposing an application at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing Israel of genocide in the Gaza war.

Mixed Responses to Israeli Settlers Ban

Zomlot expressed concern about the UK's "reputational damage" in the Middle East but welcomed the recent decision to ban violent Israeli settlers from entering the UK. He emphasized the significance of this move, marking the first time in 75 years that the UK has taken a step related to sanctions on Israel.

Inconsistencies in UK Policy

While acknowledging the ban on settlers, Zomlot condemned a government bill preventing public bodies from boycotting economic activity with Israel or Israeli settlements. He highlighted the inconsistency in the UK's policy regarding Israel's occupation of the 1967 borders, expressing confusion about the overall stance.

Rebuke for Rejecting South Africa's Case

The envoy rebuked Prime Minister Sunak for rejecting South Africa's case at the ICJ, accusing Israel of genocide. Zomlot criticized the UK's opposition as "self-appointment as international judges" and intervention in the international judicial system, alleging double standards and hypocrisy in the UK's approach to Israel and international law.

Calls for Ceasefire Amid Humanitarian Crisis

Zomlot accused Israel of causing an "unprecedented manmade humanitarian disaster" in Gaza, urging the international community to demand an immediate ceasefire. With approximately 24,000 casualties, mostly women and children, in Israel's bombardment of Gaza since October 7, Zomlot emphasized the urgency of prioritizing a ceasefire as the top priority.