Downing Street has clarified its position on Israel's actions in Gaza following comments from Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who suggested that Israel's blockade of aid shipments constitutes a breach of international law.

This marks the first explicit accusation from the UK regarding Israel's conduct since the conflict escalated after the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023.

Lammy has reiterated the necessity for humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza, highlighting the dire situation faced by civilians amid the ongoing conflict.

His recent remarks indicate a significant shift in the government's stance on this sensitive foreign policy issue, which may impact the UK's approach to humanitarian matters in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The conflict began with a Hamas raid that resulted in significant casualties, prompting a severe military response from Israel that has led to the deaths of over 48,000 Palestinians.

Lammy expressed alarm over the lack of aid entering Gaza for 15 days, stating that this situation is unacceptable and emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.

His comments have drawn criticism from within the Labour Party, with the Labour Muslim Network calling his reversal on the issue 'shocking and disgraceful'.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has faced internal backlash over the party's inconsistent stance on the conflict, which has shifted multiple times since hostilities began.

Despite the criticism, senior Cabinet minister Pat McFadden ruled out imposing an arms embargo on Israel, asserting that the UK will use its diplomatic influence to seek a ceasefire.

The UK government continues to support US military operations in the region, despite ongoing humanitarian concerns and the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

A spokesperson for the Prime Minister stated that Israel is 'at risk' of breaching humanitarian law, contradicting Lammy's earlier assertion in the House of Commons.

The ongoing conflict has led to resignations within the Labour Party from members advocating for a ceasefire, reflecting the divisive nature of the issue.