A collective of Palestinian individuals has initiated a legal pursuit for compensations from the UK Government, asserting that the origins of the Israel-Palestine conflict can be traced back to the actions of Britain.
The legal petition, spanning 400 pages, alleges violations of international law committed by Britain during its rule in the first half of the 20th century. The evidence presented covers the years from 1917 to 1948, indicating that Britain unjustly oppressed the Palestinian population, leading to the division of the territory into the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.
In parallel, Keir Starmer is gearing up to endorse Palestinian statehood at the upcoming UN General Assembly session, conditional upon Israel meeting specific requirements such as an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and rekindling the possibility of a two-state resolution.
The pivotal legal initiative, dubbed the “Britain Owes Palestine” campaign, demands acknowledgment of wrongdoing, an apology, and reparations to address what is characterized as a century-long era of oppression.
The comprehensive legal submission has been dispatched to key entities including No10, the Foreign Office, the Ministry of Defence, and the Attorney General. Failure to respond could result in the Government facing a judicial review.
Lead petitioner Munib Al-Masri, aged 91, a survivor of a British soldier-inflicted gunshot wound at 13, emphasized that the current Palestinian crisis stems from British actions, leading to prolonged suffering and oppression for over a century.
The petition, joined by 13 other individuals who experienced Britain’s alleged transgressions, highlights the necessity for Britain to acknowledge its historical role in the region’s turmoil to pave the way for a just peace.
Renowned human rights lawyer Ben Emmerson KC emphasized the extensive British responsibility for the ongoing plight in Palestine, attributing it to past violations of international law during British occupation and withdrawal. The petition underscores Britain’s obligation to make amends for historical injustices that continue to impact the region today.
The UK Government declined to provide a comment on the matter, while US ambassador to Israel Mick Huckabee criticized plans to recognize a Palestinian state, claiming it has led to adverse consequences, including emboldening Hamas and encouraging Israel to assert sovereignty over parts of the West Bank.
Currently, the State of Palestine enjoys recognition from 147 of the UN’s 193 member states, with countries like France, Canada, Japan, and Australia set to follow suit.