Former UK diplomats urge government action on Palestine and international law

Ten former UK diplomats and officials have published a letter calling on the government to uphold international law in Palestine, citing an ICJ opinion and a ceasefire they say has not ended violence.

• The International Court of Justice advised in 2024 that the 1967 occupation of Palestine is unlawful.
• UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer recognized the state of Palestine alongside Israel and confirmed the occupation is unlawful.
• The signatories stated that an October 2025 ceasefire has not ended violence and that access for MPs and journalists remains denied.
• The letter called on the government to ban trade with Israeli settlements and apply to Israel measures similar to those taken against Russia.