The British Foreign Office has accused Israel of violating international law following a sharp increase in demolitions of Palestinian structures in East Jerusalem. In a statement released on Wednesday, the Foreign Office said that the demolitions, which have displaced dozens of families in the Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan neighbourhoods, undermine the viability of a two-state solution and constitute a breach of the Fourth Geneva Convention.
The accusation marks a significant escalation in diplomatic rhetoric from London, which has historically balanced criticism of Israeli settlement policy with support for Israel’s security. The Foreign Office specifically cited Article 49 of the convention, which prohibits an occupying power from destroying private property unless absolutely necessary for military operations.
Data compiled by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs shows that demolitions in East Jerusalem have risen by 60 per cent in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period in 2023. Israeli authorities argue that the buildings were constructed without permits, which are notoriously difficult for Palestinians to obtain. Human rights groups contend that the permit system is discriminatory and designed to limit Palestinian growth in the city.
The British government’s position was echoed by the European Union, which called on Israel to halt all demolitions and evictions in East Jerusalem. However, the Israeli Foreign Ministry rejected the accusation, stating that the demolitions were carried out in accordance with Israeli law and that Britain’s claims were “baseless and one-sided.”
The timing of the statement is sensitive. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to visit London next month for talks on trade and security. The Foreign Office insisted that the accusation was not intended to disrupt diplomatic relations but reflected a principled stance on international law.
Legal experts are divided on the applicability of the Fourth Geneva Convention to East Jerusalem, which Israel annexed in 1980 in a move not recognised by the international community. The UK, along with most nations, considers East Jerusalem occupied territory. The International Court of Justice has previously ruled that Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem violate international law, but the court’s opinions are non-binding.
The demolitions have drawn attention to the broader context of displacement in the city. In the past two years, dozens of Palestinian families have been evicted from their homes in Sheikh Jarrah, a neighbourhood that has become a symbol of the conflict. The British government has provided financial aid to some of the affected families through its Conflict, Stability and Security Fund.
Analysts suggest that London’s public condemnation may be intended to signal a tougher approach as the UK seeks to redefine its post-Brexit foreign policy. However, the effectiveness of the accusation remains to be seen. Israel has faced similar criticism from the UN and EU in the past without changing its policy.
The Foreign Office has not indicated what further measures it might take if the demolitions continue. Options include a formal protest at the UN Security Council or sanctions against Israeli officials involved in settlement activity. Any such move would likely provoke a strong reaction from Washington, which remains Israel’s closest ally.
