Natalie Bennett, the former leader of the British Green Party, has strongly condemned the UK government‘s decision to continue selling weapons to Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. In an interview with Anadolu, Bennett described the arms sales as “indefensible” and called for immediate cessation.
Highlighting the devastating impact of the conflict, Bennett emphasized that the current circumstances make it clear that supplying arms to Israel, which could be used against civilians in Gaza, cannot be justified.
She pointed out that Israel’s military offensive on Gaza has resulted in a great loss of life, with thousands of Palestinians killed and many more injured. The situation has led to widespread displacement and dire humanitarian conditions for the population in Gaza, exacerbated by the Israeli blockade.
Expressing disappointment with the UK government’s response to the crisis, Bennett criticized the lack of a clear call for an immediate and permanent cease-fire. She urged the government to prioritize humanitarian assistance, including facilitating family visas for those in Britain seeking to bring their relatives from Gaza to safety.
Beyond the Gaza conflict, Bennett raised concerns about the erosion of civil liberties in the UK, citing government measures that restrict protest rights and undermine democratic principles. She emphasized the importance of upholding human rights domestically, especially as the UK seeks to maintain its global reputation as a champion of such values.
Bennett also criticized the Conservative government’s decision to increase spending limits for political parties in elections, warning against the influence of big donors on the political process. She highlighted the need for tighter regulations on campaign financing to safeguard the integrity of elections and democratic governance in the UK.
