In a significant development, more than 800 lawyers, academics, and retired judges in the UK have called for the government to impose sanctions on the Israeli government and its ministers as part of an effort to fulfill its international legal obligations.

This appeal follows increasing concerns over alleged war crimes and serious violations of international humanitarian law in Palestine, particularly in Gaza.

The coalition, which includes notable figures such as former Supreme Court justices Lord Sumption and Lord Wilson, has addressed a letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Within this letter, they express support for Starmer's recent joint statement with France and Canada in which the leaders indicated readiness to take 'concrete actions' against Israel.

However, the signatories stress that urgent and decisive measures are necessary to prevent further humanitarian devastation in Gaza.

The lawyers cite compelling evidence suggesting risks of genocide in Gaza, referring to statements made by Israeli leaders, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who remarked that Israel's military would 'wipe out' the remaining officials in Palestinian Gaza.

The signatories argue that under international law, the UK is required to take steps to prevent and punish genocide and uphold the rights of the Palestinian people.

In response to the escalating situation, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced a suspension of negotiations for a new free trade deal with Israel.

However, the legal experts advocate for more robust actions, including a thorough review of existing trade relations, the suspension of the 2030 roadmap for a closer UK-Israel partnership, and direct trade sanctions against Israeli officials implicated in inciting violence and supporting illegal settlements.

They specifically call for sanctions against Israeli ministers or senior officials of the Israel Defense Forces, whom they accuse of inciting genocide.

Until now, sanctions enacted by the UK have primarily targeted individual settlers and settler organisations, falling short of addressing the broader leadership issues.

The situation in Gaza remains critical, with over 53,000 Palestinians reportedly killed since the commencement of significant Israeli military operations on October 7, 2023, which began following a Hamas attack that claimed the lives of approximately 1,200 individuals in Israel.

Reports have surfaced of continued attacks on civilian infrastructure, including schools repurposed as shelters.

Chancellor of Germany, Friedrich Merz, has also voiced his concerns, asserting that the damage inflicted on civilians cannot be justified as a counter-terrorism effort against Hamas.

The humanitarian situation further complicates as the letter urges the UK government to advocate for an unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and to lift restrictions imposed on the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA).

This letter's release coincides with increased scrutiny on the UK government's stance regarding arms sales to Israel, an issue previously highlighted by members of the legal community.

The ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Gaza have attracted widespread international attention, with pleas from various organizations urging governments to take action to alleviate civilian suffering.