Starmer is under pressure. Labour MPs warn him against meeting with Herzog

Israeli President Isaac Herzog's visit to the United Kingdom comes at a tense time. The British government is considering recognizing Palestine, and several Labour MPs are calling on party leader Keir Starmer not to meet with Herzog.

In their view, this would send an unclear signal regarding Britain's stance on the war in Gaza, where, according to local authorities, more than 65,000 people have been killed as a result of Israeli intervention.

As the Guardian writes, Herzog's role is largely ceremonial, but in the past he has publicly supported the military operation and accused all Palestinians in Gaza of participating in the Hamas attack. According to legal experts, this could constitute a violation of the Genocide Convention.

However, some politicians warn that uncomfortable dialogues are also part of diplomacy. Downing Street has not yet confirmed the meeting.

Starmer and Foreign Secretary David Lammy have changed their rhetoric in recent months and supported the establishment of a Palestinian state.

(guardian, lup)