The United Kingdom has reiterated its alarm over the worsening humanitarian situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territories during the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council.
Although time constraints prevented the statement from being delivered in person, the UK’s position was formally recorded as part of the interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner’s report.
The statement, published on 2 March 2026, underscores Britain’s growing unease over conditions in Gaza and the West Bank.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza Remains Severe
The UK said it remains gravely concerned about the ongoing crisis in Gaza, pointing to the devastating toll on civilians.
British officials stressed that civilians must be protected and that humanitarian aid should be allowed to enter safely, quickly and in sufficient quantities.
The statement referenced findings in the High Commissioner’s report detailing how hostilities have disrupted essential services, restricted movement and severely limited humanitarian access.
London’s message was clear — aid delivery must improve dramatically to prevent further suffering.
Rising Instability in the West Bank and East Jerusalem
The UK also turned its attention to the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, describing the situation there as deeply troubling.
According to the statement, settler violence, tight movement restrictions and mounting pressure on civic space are all contributing to heightened instability. Britain called on all sides to take urgent action to reduce tensions before the situation deteriorates further.
Settlement Expansion Draws Sharp Criticism
A particularly strong warning was issued over what the UK described as record levels of Israeli settlement expansion. The government said such activity breaches international law and moves both Palestinians and Israelis further away from a peaceful resolution.
The expansion trend, it argued, undermines efforts to stabilise the region and weakens prospects for a negotiated settlement.
Push for Political Pathway and Two-State Solution
Despite the challenges, the UK reaffirmed its commitment to working with international partners to improve humanitarian conditions and support long-term peace efforts.
It called for the rapid implementation of the proposed 20 Point Plan, describing it as a foundation for rebuilding trust and moving toward a credible political horizon. Britain again emphasised that any lasting solution must be based on a negotiated two-state framework.
In closing, the UK posed a direct question to the High Commissioner, asking what immediate measures could be taken to strengthen humanitarian access and civilian protection in both Gaza and the West Bank.
Impact and Consequences
The UK’s intervention adds to mounting diplomatic pressure surrounding the humanitarian and political situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
Public statements at the Human Rights Council can influence international dialogue, shape resolutions and contribute to accountability efforts.
Strong criticism of settlement expansion may further strain diplomatic relations, while renewed calls for improved humanitarian access could increase scrutiny on the flow of aid and civilian protections.
At the same time, reaffirming support for a two-state solution keeps the UK aligned with longstanding international consensus, even as prospects for peace remain fragile.
What’s Next?
Debate over Gaza and the West Bank is expected to continue in future sessions of the Human Rights Council. The High Commissioner may outline recommended immediate steps in response to the UK’s question.
Diplomatic efforts around the 20 Point Plan are likely to intensify, with international partners assessing whether practical measures can be implemented to ease humanitarian suffering and reduce tensions on the ground.
The broader question remains whether political momentum can be rebuilt toward meaningful negotiations.
Summary
In a formal statement submitted to the UN Human Rights Council, the UK expressed grave concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and escalating instability in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
It criticised record settlement expansion, called for urgent improvements in aid access and civilian protection, and reaffirmed support for a negotiated two-state solution grounded in the 20 Point Plan.
Bulleted Takeaways
- The UK submitted a statement during the 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council.
- Serious concern was raised over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
- The UK highlighted movement restrictions and limits on aid access.
- Rising settler violence and instability in the West Bank and East Jerusalem were criticised.
- Record Israeli settlement expansion was described as a breach of international law.
- Britain called for urgent implementation of the 20 Point Plan.
- The UK reaffirmed support for a negotiated two-state solution.
