THE Foreign Secretary David Cameron has refused to answer questions about Gaza and Israel during an interview with the BBC.
During an appearance on the broadcaster’s Ukrainecast podcast, journalist Lucy Hockings attempted to ask Cameron about Gaza and Israel following the deaths of seven humanitarian workers from World Central Kitchen – including three British citizens – in an Israeli airstrike.
Hockings said: “We obviously could talk to you all morning and I know you have to go. I also have a few quick questions on Israel and Gaza.”
However, Cameron replied that he wouldn’t be answering any questions about either Gaza or Israel.
Extraordinary moment where David Cameron flat out refuses to answer any questions about the Israeli killing of seven aid workers, including three British citizens, in Gaza.
— George Grylls (@georgegrylls) April 4, 2024
Haven’t been in Brussels, but understand he didn’t take any Qs yesterday either at two press events. pic.twitter.com/B9cd8yvrr9
“This is Ukrainecast,” he said.
“I’m not doing, I’m doing that later. So, I’m afraid I might…I’m afraid that’s. We’re out of time”.
Hockings then attempted to press the Foreign Secretary to answer questions about the ongoing bombardment of Gaza.
She asked: “We don’t have time for anything else?”
“I’ve got to do a pool later,” replied Cameron.
Hockings asked once more: “Will you take any questions just quickly on Israel?”
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“No,” said Cameron.
While Cameron has described the deaths of the humanitarian workers in Gaza as “dreadful” he has so far refused to comment on whether the UK will stop all arms sales to Israel.
It comes a leaked recording of Tory MP Alicia Kearns revealed that the UK Government has received legal advice that Israel is breaking international humanitarian law.
So far, however, the Foreign Office has refused to make that advice public and said it keeps Israel’s compliance with international law under review.
The Scottish Greens have said Cameron's position is "untenable" due to his lack of decisive action concerning Israel's flouting of international law in Gaza.
Maggie Chapman MSP said: "The Foreign Secretary has allowed arms to keep flowing to Israel despite widespread evidence of serious war crimes, collective punishment and genocide.
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“Israeli forces have shown a total disregard for human rights and international law, and a contempt for Palestinians. They have committed some of the most horrendous war crimes of the 21st century.
“One reason they have been able to do this is because of the shameful support they have received from complicit governments like the UK.
“Even Tory MPs must have limits, and must know that David Cameron’s position is utterly untenable. He has helped to enable six months of grotesque atrocities and mass killing. He has seen what is happening and has chosen to arm and support it every step of the way.
“He must publish all of the legal advice that the government has received, and, if he has any concern about the rights and lives of Palestinians he must recognise the damage he has done and resign."
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