The United States provides support to Israel, so if Keir Starmer’s favorable relationship with Donald Trump is to have value, the Prime Minister must convince him to exert pressure on Benjamin Netanyahu. Despite the perception that Britain holds significant global influence, it cannot single-handedly stop the distressing suffering and violence in Gaza.
Starmer has made several missteps in handling this conflict, initially hesitating to condemn the unjust restrictions on essential resources and humanitarian aid, as well as maintaining weapon sales to Israel. Despite internal pressure, he has resisted acknowledging a Palestinian state. However, he has taken steps such as halting certain military exports, imposing sanctions on extreme figures in Netanyahu’s government, and rejecting calls to oppose international arrest warrants for alleged war crimes, including one against Netanyahu.
Starmer’s genuine distress over the Palestinian casualties is evident. Encouraging Trump, especially during his visit to Scotland, to pressure Netanyahu could lead to a breakthrough. This could potentially transition Israel’s temporary ceasefire in parts of Gaza into a permanent end to the 22-month conflict with Hamas and the cessation of bombings, likely leading to the release of Israeli captives.
By highlighting a trade agreement that mitigates the impact of hostile tariffs from the U.S., Starmer could show the benefits of maintaining a positive rapport with the American President. However, the downside includes increased UK military expenditure, with implications that Ukrainian President Zelensky may prefer dealing with Biden or Harris in the White House.
Although urging Trump to intervene with Netanyahu poses challenges, aligning with humanity’s side to end starvation and violence is crucial for Britain and the Prime Minister. The looming presence of multiple significant national parties sets the stage for a highly unpredictable general election, with the potential for Jeremy Corbyn’s new party to disrupt Labour and alter the political landscape significantly. Starmer must now focus on shoring up his party’s support base and navigating the increasingly complex political landscape in the UK.