Board of Deputies of British Jews and Jewish Leadership Council Joint Statement on UK’s withdrawal of objection to ICC jurisdiction

Today we learned that our government will not be pursuing the UK’s original objection to the ICC’s jurisdiction over the current Israel-Gaza conflict. This regretful and regressive step not only appears to be a reversal of long-term UK foreign policy, but also puts us at odds with international allies such as the USA and Germany, who have challenged the court’s treatment of Israel.

This decision comes at a time where many in the Jewish community are still assessing how this government will in practice stand by its words, delivered when in opposition, to support Israel’s right to self-defence. It comes a week after the return of UK funding to UNRWA, despite significant outstanding concerns. It also comes amidst increased reports that the government will soon be making an announcement regarding the sale of arms to Israel – a country which only 300 days ago suffered the worst attack on Jewish people since the Holocaust.

We are concerned that the cumulative effect of these announcements, in quick succession, signal a significant shift in policy, away from Israel being a key UK ally. This would not only be a strategic error but a moral one. The government should urgently reconsider any such approach.