More than 100 former French and British diplomats have accused Israel of ethnic cleansing and called for urgent measures, including trade and arms sales bans.
The letter, addressed to French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Andy Burnham, argues that Britain and France have a responsibility to support equal rights for Israelis and Palestinians. It was signed by 52 French former diplomats and 50 British former ambassadors, many of whom served in the Middle East.
The letter was published two days after the UK and France, along with nine other countries, condemned Israel’s E1 settlement project. The UK foreign secretary called the tenders for 1,200 homes in the West Bank a destructive threat to the two-state solution. Israel’s foreign minister responded by asserting the Jewish people’s right to live throughout Israel.
Why it matters
The accusation of ethnic cleansing and the call for sanctions challenge Israel’s international credibility and diplomatic relations.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
Watch whether UK and French officials respond to the letter by revising their stance on Israeli settlement projects.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.