The United Kingdom has formally condemned a United Nations report that alleges acts of genocide by Israel in Gaza, dismissing the findings as deeply flawed and biased. In a statement issued by the Foreign Office, officials reiterated London's unwavering support for Israel's right to self-defence while urging a return to diplomatic pathways.
The UN report, compiled by a special rapporteur, claims that Israeli military operations in Gaza constitute genocidal acts. It cites extensive civilian casualties, destruction of infrastructure, and restrictions on humanitarian aid. The UK government countered that the report selectively uses evidence and ignores the context of Hamas's attacks on October 7, which killed 1,200 Israelis and triggered the current conflict.
'This report does not reflect the reality on the ground,' said a Foreign Office spokesperson. 'The UK stands with Israel against Hamas terrorism. We believe in accountability, but not through politicised mechanisms that undermine the very principles of international law.'
The condemnation aligns with the UK's long-standing position. Since the outbreak of the war, Britain has supplied Israel with defensive equipment and intelligence sharing. It has also resisted calls for a ceasefire, arguing that Israel must be allowed to dismantle Hamas.
The report's release comes amid growing international isolation for Israel. Several countries, including South Africa and Ireland, have filed cases at the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of genocide. The UK's rejection signals a deepening divide between Western allies and the Global South on the issue.
Domestically, the decision has sparked fierce debate. Pro-Palestinian groups accused the government of complicity in potential war crimes. 'By dismissing this report, the UK is giving Israel a blank cheque to continue its assault on Gaza,' said a spokesperson for the NGO War on Want.
Conservative MPs defended the government. 'The UN has once again proven itself hostile to Israel,' said former defence minister Sir Gerald Howarth. 'This report will do nothing to bring peace. It only emboldens Hamas.'
The controversy is set to dominate this week's session in Parliament, where Labour has called for a full debate on the UK's arms sales to Israel. The government has so far resisted calls for a ban, citing legal advice that exports remain compliant with international law.
The United States is expected to issue a similar rebuttal in the coming days. However, the UK's early and categorical rejection underscores its role as Israel's most steadfast ally in Europe. As the war enters its sixth month with no end in sight, the gap between competing accounts of reality continues to widen.
In the rubble of Gaza, where over 30,000 dead have been counted, those numbers are not just data points. They represent lives lost. But in the chambers of power, they become ammunition in a geopolitical war of narratives. The UK has chosen its side.
