In a parliamentary hearing on Tuesday, Foreign Secretary David Cameron asserted that British government lawyers do not believe Israel breached international law in response to Hamas’s deadly October 7 attack. However, Cameron expressed deep concern about certain aspects of the conflict in the besieged Palestinian territory. Pressed on the legality of Israel’s response, Cameron acknowledged worries about potential breaches of international law during the bombardment, which resulted in approximately 1,140 deaths in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally. The Foreign Affairs Committee questioned Cameron on whether government lawyers had advised that Israel could face challenges from the International Criminal Court. Cameron stated that it’s “close to that,” emphasising the need for closer scrutiny and legal examination. He mentioned the advice received so far, indicating that Israel has demonstrated commitment, capability, and compliance. Cameron, now serving in the unelected upper chamber, emphasised the extensive international effort required to rebuild Gaza due to the significant destruction. He noted the devastating impact on civilians, particularly women and children. During the hearing, Cameron revealed figures suggesting that Hamas fighters had lost over 50 per cent of their capability to fire rockets into Israel. MPs had the opportunity to question Cameron for the first time since he assumed the role of foreign secretary, despite not being an elected lawmaker in the House of Commons. Addressing the ongoing situation in Ukraine, Cameron called on US lawmakers to approve a $250 million military assistance package, currently facing resistance in Congress. He expressed confidence in American support, citing a potential majority in Congress favouring the aid package.
