Joint Statement: UK, France, and Canada Warn Israel of Potential Sanctions

Leaders of the United Kingdom, France, and Canada issued a joint statement on Monday, voicing strong opposition to the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank and warning that punitive measures, including sanctions, may be considered.

The statement also called on Israel to halt its military offensive in Gaza and to lift restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid. The leaders emphasized that Israel’s recent announcement allowing a limited quantity of food into Gaza is wholly insufficient. They urged an immediate cessation of military operations and unimpeded access for humanitarian assistance.

The statement condemned Israel’s refusal to provide essential aid to civilians in Gaza, describing such actions as unacceptable. Additionally, the leaders denounced the extremist rhetoric from certain members of the Israeli government, warning that threats of forced displacement constitute a violation of international humanitarian law.

They affirmed that they will not remain passive in the face of what they described as outrageous actions by the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

On another front, the statement called on Hamas to immediately release all remaining hostages in the Gaza Strip, and reaffirmed the three countries’ support for ongoing efforts by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt to broker a ceasefire in the territory.