UK arms sales to Israel criticized by Palestine ambassador

Dr. Husam Zomlot, Palestine's ambassador to the UK, expressed strong disapproval of the UK's ongoing arms sales to Israel during a speech at the TUC conference in Brighton. He highlighted the recent suspension of 30 out of 350 arms export licenses to Israel as a positive step but emphasized that any arms delivery is unacceptable given the ongoing conflict and its implications under international law. As the war in Gaza nears its one-year mark, he called for an immediate ceasefire and criticized global leaders for their inaction regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Zomlot provided alarming statistics, stating that over 41,000 Palestinians have died and nearly 100,000 have been injured since the conflict escalated. He condemned the destruction of civilian infrastructure, including homes, hospitals, and schools, framing it as part of a broader pattern of violence against the Palestinian people. Despite the dire situation, he expressed gratitude for the support from the British public, noting that London has become a center for global solidarity with Palestine. He acknowledged the resilience of the Palestinian people, asserting that they would endure the attempts to erase their existence and that Gaza would eventually be rebuilt. Zomlot called for international assistance in reconstruction efforts, appealing for expertise from British professionals in various fields. The ambassador's remarks come amid a backdrop of escalating violence, including significant casualties on both sides, and highlight the urgent need for a resolution to the ongoing conflict.