US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has sharply criticized UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband, accusing him of harboring “Jew hate” following Miliband’s call for improved access to humanitarian aid in Gaza. Miliband had voiced concerns over reports that essential medical and humanitarian supplies were being blocked from reaching the region, highlighting accounts from aid workers indicating that children in Gaza were dying due to a lack of medical treatment. He urged the UK government to take stronger measures to address the dire humanitarian situation.
Huckabee dismissed Miliband’s claims, arguing that the British government was baselessly accusing Israel. Echoing this sentiment, Israel’s Foreign Ministry denied any restrictions on the entry of medicines into Gaza and accused Miliband of spreading false narratives. Despite these denials, various humanitarian organizations have consistently reported challenges in delivering crucial supplies to Gaza, citing shortages and restrictions on the materials needed for hospitals to function effectively.
This dispute emerges on the heels of Miliband’s announcement that the UK plans to undertake a “comprehensive reset” of its policy toward Israel. This reset is anticipated to include measures concerning Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. The British government has a history of criticizing Israel over its control of humanitarian aid access to Gaza and has advocated for improved access to essential supplies.
The ongoing tension underscores the friction between Britain and Israel regarding the humanitarian conditions in Gaza. British officials are presently engaged in discussions about how to recalibrate their policy toward Israel, balancing the need for change with the importance of maintaining vital security and intelligence cooperation.