**British Jewish Group Condemns Israel’s Gaza Offensive**
A group of members from Britain’s largest Jewish organization, the Board of Deputies, has condemned Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza. The condemnation comes as the Israeli government continues to block essential supplies, including food and medicine, into the Gaza Strip.
According to the Board of Deputies, dozens of Jewish members have signed a letter expressing their concern over the situation in Gaza. The board estimates that around 10% of its members have signed the letter, with potentially more members associating themselves with its message. This move reflects a growing divide within the Jewish community in Britain, where some members feel compelled to speak out against Israel’s actions.
The conflict in Gaza began in October 2023, when Israel launched a campaign to destroy Hamas in response to an attack that killed around 1,200 people and took 251 hostages. Since then, at least 51,025 people have been killed in Gaza, according to the territory’s Hamas-run health ministry.
**Humanitarian Crisis Unfolds**
The situation on the ground is dire, with thousands of Palestinians forced to flee their homes and seeking refuge elsewhere. Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders) has described the destruction and forced relocation of the entire Gazan population as “devastating”. The humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by Israel’s blockade, which has prevented essential supplies from entering the territory.
The UN Human Rights Office has condemned Israel’s actions, highlighting 36 strikes that killed only women and children. The number of casualties continues to rise, with over 1,650 people killed in recent attacks.
**Israel’s Response**
Israel claims it is pressuring Hamas into releasing hostages and has pledged to maintain the blockade. However, critics argue that this approach will only worsen the humanitarian crisis and perpetuate a cycle of violence.
The Israeli government maintains that there is no shortage of assistance, despite UN warnings of “devastating consequences”. However, many experts believe that the situation on the ground is too dire to ignore.
**British Jewish Community Divided**
The condemnation from the Board of Deputies reflects a growing divide within the British Jewish community. Some members feel compelled to speak out against Israel’s actions, while others remain silent or support the government’s stance.
One signatory of the letter, Harriet Goldenberg, vice-chair of the international division of the Board of Deputies, said: “As Jews, it is our duty to speak out.” Another signatory, lawyer Philip Goldenberg, added that there are many people who share their views but are reluctant to speak out for personal reasons.
**Conclusion**
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with thousands of Palestinians forced to flee their homes and seeking refuge elsewhere. The condemnation from the Board of Deputies reflects a growing divide within the British Jewish community, where some members feel compelled to speak out against Israel’s actions.
As the humanitarian crisis unfolds, it is essential that all parties work towards a peaceful resolution. The international community must come together to demand an end to the blockade and ensure that essential supplies are allowed into Gaza.
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