Courage Over Politics: Plaid Cymru Demands Action Against Israel Amid Gaza Crisis

Leading figures from Plaid Cymru have issued a powerful call to action, urging Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to immediately impose sanctions on the Israeli government due to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Politicians Rhun ap Iorwerth and Liz Saville Roberts emphasized the pressing need for ”moral courage” from the UK leadership in light of the United Nations’ alarming warnings about the mass starvation affecting Gaza.

Starmer has acknowledged the ”pressing need for Israel to change course” and allow humanitarian aid into the region. He plans to engage in emergency discussions with France and Germany to explore measures for alleviating the crisis, admitting that action is urgently needed to ”stop the killing” and ensure essential supplies reach those in need.

In their correspondence to Starmer and Foreign Secretary David Lammy, Plaid’s leaders expressed concern that history will judge those who fail to act decisively in order to help those suffering in Gaza. They called for a total arms embargo on Israel and criticized the UK government for failing to translate its stated commitment into substantive action.

Earlier this week, Lammy described the Gaza situation as ”grotesque,” adding that the UK would consider further measures should Israel not show significant behavioral changes. Meanwhile, over 100 international aid organizations have raised alarms about the blockade on food aid by Israel, which they argue is contributing to the dire humanitarian situation. Reports indicate that around 1,054 Palestinians have died seeking food amid the crisis.

The Israeli government has touted its cooperation with UN efforts, claiming it facilitated the collection of 150 food trucks, while aid workers continue to criticize Israeli actions as obstructive. The ongoing tensions have also spurred political alliances, with 57 MPs, including those from Plaid Cymru and Labour, advocating for a transparent arms export policy concerning military supplies to Israel. This situation highlights the urgent need for international attention and action on the escalating humanitarian disaster in Gaza.