Palestinian Representative Husam Zomlot Accuses UK of Hypocrisy

Husam Zomlot, the top Palestinian envoy to the UK, has criticized the British government for its perceived double standards and hypocrisy in its policies towards Palestinians. He specifically criticized Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for opposing an application at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) that accuses Israel of genocide in the war in Gaza. Zomlot stated that the UK has suffered reputational damage in the Middle East due to such policies. However, he did welcome the recent decision by the UK government to ban violent Israeli settlers from entering the country. This move followed a similar plan announced by the US. Zomlot viewed this as a significant moment, as it is the first time in 75 years that the UK has taken a step towards sanctioning Israel. The envoy also condemned a government bill that bans public bodies from boycotting economic activity with Israel or Israeli settlements. Zomlot expressed confusion over the UK's inconsistent stance on Palestine and accused the country of intervention and interference in the international judicial system. He called on the international community to demand a ceasefire in response to what he described as an unprecedented manmade humanitarian disaster caused by Israel in Gaza.