The United Kingdom has announced a joint statement during the 59th regular session of the United Nations Human Rights Council. On June 17, 2025, the UK, in collaboration with Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Norway, condemned the ongoing human suffering in Gaza and voiced opposition to Israel’s increasing military actions. The UK’s Ambassador for Human Rights, Eleanor Sanders, delivered the statement as part of the Interactive Dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs), including East Jerusalem.
The joint statement strongly criticized any plans by Israel to assume control over Gaza, highlighting the severe Palestinian casualty toll which has reached 55,000. Additionally, the statement demanded investigations into Israeli assaults on UN and aid workers.
The dialogue urges an immediate ceasefire and endorses a two-state solution. In a similar vein, the European Union has called attention to the dire humanitarian conditions caused by the inadequate entry of aid into Gaza. It also opposes any demographic or geographical alterations in the region, advocating for a resolution in accordance with UNSCR 2735.
The Commission of Inquiry of the OPTs presented a report accusing Israeli forces of committing war crimes, including targeting civilians and willful killings, as per Article 8 of the Rome Statute. The report also details claims of crimes against humanity due to the widespread destruction of educational and cultural sites in Gaza.
Navanethem Pillay, chair of the Commission, has stated that over 1,300 children have died since the cessation of the last truce, and more than 15,000 children have perished since October 2023. The report indicates that these actions are part of a broader pattern of deliberate attacks on civilians.
Meanwhile, the conflict continues to intensify, with instances of escalating air strikes between Iran and Israel. Amidst these developments, calls for action are being made from various corners. Human rights organizations are urging G7 leaders, who are currently convening in Canada, to impose sanctions on Israel in response to its actions in the Gaza Strip.