On Wednesday, April 30, 2025, significant discussions regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza unfolded as both British and Indonesian officials voiced their concerns over Israel's blockade of aid and its implications on the Palestinian people. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono articulated their respective governments' positions during international forums, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and the legal obligations of Israel under international law.
During a committee session on International Relations and Defense, Lammy described the Israeli blockade as "appalling," emphasizing the immense suffering and dire needs of the people in Gaza. He stated, "The blockade that Israel is currently enforcing on necessary aid to Gaza is appalling. The suffering is appalling. The need is immense. The loss of life is extreme." His remarks came in the context of a broader condemnation of the blockade by the UK, Germany, and France, all of which have expressed their disapproval of the humanitarian situation.
Lammy also recalled a recent conversation with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, where he reminded him of Israel's obligations under international humanitarian law. This dialogue reflects the UK's ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the humanitarian crisis, particularly as it relates to the restrictions on aid.
The UK's stance has also led to a significant policy shift regarding arms exports to Israel. Following Lammy's appointment, the UK suspended 30 out of 350 export licenses to Israel, particularly those related to military equipment, including parts for drones, helicopters, and military aircraft systems. However, licenses associated with the F-35 program remain unaffected. Amnesty International and other human rights organizations have pointed out that Israeli F-35 jets, many of which are partially assembled with UK components, have played a critical role in the ongoing bombings in Gaza.
Meanwhile, in The Hague, Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono urged the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to compel Israel to facilitate humanitarian aid from the United Nations. He underscored Israel's legal responsibilities to protect the basic rights of Palestinians, referencing international treaties such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR).
Sugiono articulated that Israel has a special obligation to implement aid schemes, which includes recognizing the right to an adequate standard of living as stipulated in Article 11(1) of the ICESCR. He further emphasized that Israel must fulfill provisions related to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health as outlined in Article 12(1) of the same covenant. Sugiono stated, "There is a specific obligation to implement this aid scheme, including the obligation to recognize everyone’s right to an adequate standard of living as stated in Article 11(1) of the ICESCR."
In his address to the ICJ, Sugiono reiterated the importance of the right to self-determination for the Palestinian people. He referenced the 2004 Wall Opinion and the 2024 Opinion on Legal Consequences, both of which affirm the Palestinians' right to self-determination. He noted, "This honorable court has repeatedly and emphatically stated in the Wall Opinion 2004 and the 2024 Opinion on Legal Consequences that the Palestinian people have the right to self-determination."
The Indonesian minister highlighted the systematic destruction of civilian infrastructure and health facilities in Gaza, which has severely impacted the Palestinians' ability to live with dignity in their homeland. He stated, "The international community has witnessed the systematic destruction of civilian infrastructure and health facilities in Gaza by Israel, which makes it impossible for the Palestinian people to live decently in their own land."
Sugiono's comments reflect Indonesia's strong advocacy for Palestinian rights on the international stage, as he called on the court to recognize the fundamental right of the Palestinian people to determine their own future. He emphasized that Israel's actions have systematically undermined the spirit of the Palestinian people and obstructed their ability to determine their political, social, economic, and cultural future.
As these discussions continue, the international community remains vigilant regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Both the UK and Indonesia's calls for action highlight a growing consensus among nations regarding the need for immediate humanitarian assistance and the enforcement of international law to protect the rights of the Palestinian people.
In summary, the statements made by Lammy and Sugiono underscore the urgent need for a resolution to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Their appeals to the international community reflect a broader concern for the protection of human rights and the necessity for Israel to adhere to its legal obligations under international law.
