The UK government, under business secretary Kemi Badenoch, has been holding trade negotiations with Israel amidst the conflict in Gaza. The fifth round of talks began on 8 April, just seven days after the killing of three British aid workers by the Israeli Defense Forces in Gaza.
Despite the escalating violence and casualties on the Palestinian side, negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) continued. These discussions, hosted by the UK, involved high-level talks between Badenoch and her Israeli counterpart, Nir Barkat.
Opposition to these trade talks has come from various groups, including the TUC, citing Israel’s violations of international law and human rights in Palestine. However, the UK government remains committed to pursuing a trade deal with Israel.
Badenoch, termed as a “true friend” of Israel by Barkat, is pushing for an innovative services free trade agreement that will benefit both economies. Meanwhile, critics argue that such a deal would implicate British businesses in human rights abuses.
The negotiations, aimed at strengthening trade relations between the UK and Israel, have faced criticism for potentially rewarding Israel for its actions in Gaza. Despite this, the talks continue, highlighting the complexities of diplomatic relations amid humanitarian crises.
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