UK Liberal Democrats leader Ed Davey has declared that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, aligning with a new UN commission report that accused Israeli leaders of intending to destroy Palestinians as a group. His stance marks a first for a British party leader and coincides with his decision to boycott the king’s state banquet for US President Donald Trump.

UN Report Defines Genocide in Gaza

The UN commission of inquiry issued a 72-page report concluding Israel has carried out four of the five acts defined under the Genocide Convention: mass killings, inflicting serious harm, creating destructive living conditions, and preventing births. Investigators cited mass civilian casualties, blocked aid routes, and official rhetoric as proof of intent. Israel rejected the accusations, claiming military actions target Hamas fighters.

Additional reporting shows the commission also documented destruction of hospitals and a fertility clinic as evidence of intent to prevent births. The investigators linked statements from senior Israeli ministers to incitement to genocide, warning member states of their duty to act under the Convention. (AP)

Political Repercussions in the UK

Davey said the evidence from UN experts, genocide scholars, and Israeli rights groups leaves “no doubt” about the nature of crimes in Gaza. He argued that President Trump, during his UK visit, holds the leverage to demand a ceasefire and secure humanitarian access. His boycott of the royal banquet is meant to draw attention to Washington’s role. The Liberal Democrats had already called for a full arms embargo on Israel last year, making them the largest British party to do so.

Commentators note Davey’s move is unprecedented for a UK party leader and comes amid mounting public pressure on Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has resisted calls to use the genocide label. Opposition MPs have urged the government to release its legal advice on Israel’s actions and to suspend all arms exports.

Government Stance and International Law

The UK Foreign Office responded cautiously, saying genocide determinations should come from international courts such as the International Court of Justice. Officials acknowledged the situation as “appalling” and demanded Israel halt its ground offensive and allow aid in. Critics argue this position falls short, pointing to the ICJ’s provisional measures ordering Israel to prevent genocidal acts and ensure humanitarian access.

The ICJ’s provisional measures from January 2024 ordered Israel to avoid acts that could constitute genocide, to punish incitement, and to allow humanitarian relief. In March 2024, the court issued further orders to prevent starvation in Gaza. Analysts stress that while these rulings do not yet amount to a final genocide judgment, they bind Israel under international law.