Devendra Kumar
Suella Braverman, the former UK home secretary, has sparked widespread controversy with her recent statements downplaying the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and defending Israel’s actions. During her visit to the country, Braverman claimed that Israel is “absolutely not” in breach of international humanitarian law, stating that the country is going “above and beyond” to ensure the safety of civilians and that there is plenty of food and water available. However, many have criticized her remarks, arguing that they fail to acknowledge the dire reality on the ground.
Braverman’s comments have been met with incredulity by many, who point out that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is indeed dire and deeply concerning. Former Conservative foreign secretary David Cameron has described the situation as “dire and deeply concerning”, and has criticized Israel’s restrictions on aid shipments. Cameron has explained that the main obstacles to aid delivery are the Israeli government’s denials and lengthy clearance procedures, including multiple screenings and narrow opening windows in daylight hours.
Conservative MP Alicia Kearns has also questioned Braverman’s claims, pointing out that the United Nations has not requested the Kerem Shalom crossing to be closed on Saturdays and that Israel is responsible for closing it due to their Sabbath. Kearns has also shared photographs of food and aid trucks entering Gaza, challenging Braverman’s assertion that aid is not being delivered. The controversy has triggered a fierce backlash, with Sir Alan Duncan, a former MP for Rutland and Melton, calling for Braverman to have the whip withdrawn from the Conservative party.
Duncan described Braverman’s statements as “disgusting, repulsive, and repellent”, and emphasized that there is clearly a humanitarian problem in Gaza that needs to be addressed. Meanwhile, Braverman and other proponents of Israel’s actions in Gaza have dismissed criticism as anti-Semitic and argued that the situation is being misreported. However, many believe that Braverman’s remarks only serve to perpetuate the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and that they fail to acknowledge Israel’s role in perpetuating it.
The controversy has highlighted the ongoing tensions between the UK and Israel, as well as the challenges facing humanitarians working to deliver aid in the region. As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, it is clear that a solution is urgently needed to address the humanitarian crisis and end the suffering of innocent civilians.