Britain, Canada And France Threaten To Impose Sanctions On Israel

JAKARTA - Britain's, Canada and France leaders threatened sanctions against Israel on Monday if the country did not stop a new military offensive in the Gaza Strip and lift aid restrictions, which further pressured Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The Israeli military announced the start of a new operation on Friday, while PM Netanyahu on Monday said Israel would take control of all of Gaza.

On the other hand, international experts have warned of a possible hunger disaster.

"The Israeli government's rejection of humanitarian aid is important for civilians unacceptable and at risk of violating International Humanitarian Law," a joint statement released by the British government said.

"We are against any attempt to expand settlements in the West Bank. We will not hesitate to take further action, including targeted sanctions," the statement added.

Israel has blocked entry of medical supplies, food and fuel to Gaza since early March to try to pressure Hamas to free the hostages held hostage by the Palestinian militant group on October 7, 2023, when the group attacked the Israeli community.

"We have always supported Israel's right to defend Israelis from terrorism. However, this escalation is completely disproportionate," the three Western leaders said in a joint statement.

They said they would not remain silent while PM Netanyahu's government carried out "this horrific act."

They expressed their support for efforts led by the United States, Qatar and Egypt for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and said they were committed to recognizing the Palestinian state as part of a two-state solution to the conflict.

Hamas welcomed the joint statement and described the stance as an "important step" in the right direction towards restoring international legal principles.

The latest conflict in the Gaza Strip broke out on October 7, 2023, when Palestinian militant groups led by Hamas attacked Israel's southern region, killing 1,200 people and holding 251 others hostage, according to Israeli calculations.

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas followed by the release of the hostages was agreed upon by both sides and valid since January 19. It ended in March with Israel continuing its attacks on March 18.

Yesterday, Gaza's health authorities confirmed the death toll from the Israeli attack had reached 53,486, as well as 121,398 injured, the majority of women and children, quoted from WAFA.

Meanwhile, the death toll since Israel restarted attacks on March 18 has reached 3,340, while injuries have reached 9,357.