More than 300 staff at the UK Foreign Office expressed concerns about the government's role regarding Israel's actions in Gaza, questioning arms sales and adherence to international law. In response, the Foreign Office leadership suggested that those with significant disagreements might consider resigning, prompting outrage among staff. This letter marked the fourth attempt by civil servants since late 2023 to address their concerns, reflecting alarm over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and broader issues related to Israel's policies in the region. Staff feel their warnings have gone unheeded and fear future legal repercussions.
‘If your disagreement with any aspect of government policy or action is profound your ultimate recourse is to resign from the Civil Service. This is an honourable course.’
‘There is frustration and a deep sense of disappointment that the space for challenge is being further shut down.’
Officials reflected the scale of the civilian death toll in Gaza, Israel's restrictions on aid supply and settler violence in the occupied West Bank.
The response to the concerns was deemed outrageous by officials, signaling a significant pushback against raising issues within the Foreign Office.
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