UK Jewish Group Urges Increased Israeli Aid to Gaza

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The Board of Deputies of British Jews, the UK’s largest Jewish organisation, has welcomed recent Israeli efforts to expand humanitarian aid to Gaza, describing the move as “essential if long overdue.”

The comments come amid growing concerns about severe food shortages and civilian suffering in Gaza. Phil Rosenberg, President of the Board of Deputies, stated this week, “The suffering we are witnessing in the Gaza Strip demands a response.” He added, “The new measures announced by Israeli authorities to address the humanitarian crisis are essential if long overdue.”

The Board called for a “rapid, uninhibited, and sustained increase in aid through all available channels,” urging all involved parties to cooperate. Rosenberg reiterated the group’s stance that “food must not be used as a weapon of war, by any side in this conflict.”

The statement marks a notable shift in tone from earlier this year, when the Board took disciplinary action against members who publicly criticised Israel’s military campaign. The change reflects broader shifts in global Jewish discourse surrounding the humanitarian impact of the conflict.

Rosenberg also reaffirmed the group’s support for a two-state solution that ensures security for Israel and viability for a future Palestinian state. However, he criticised the UK government’s recent position on recognising Palestinian statehood.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced last week that Britain may join France in recognising a Palestinian state this autumn, if Israel fails to agree to a ceasefire. Rosenberg said the UK must not “empower or reward Hamas,” and sought confirmation that recognition would not proceed unless Hamas meets key UK conditions, including the release of hostages and acceptance of a ceasefire.

The Board also condemned recent remarks from senior Israeli officials, including proposals for the displacement of Palestinians from Gaza. Rosenberg stated these views were “appalling” and “unacceptable.”

The statement follows similar concerns raised by former Board president Marie van der Zyl, who warned in Jewish News that “hunger and human suffering, on this scale, are incompatible with the core values of our faith.”

More than 1,200 rabbis globally, including London-based Rabbi Jonathan Wittenberg, have signed an open letter urging action to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.