Pro-Palestine activists across the United Kingdom have launched a fervent campaign demanding the arrest of Israeli President Isaac Herzog during his controversial state visit. The calls come amid escalating tensions over Israel's military actions in Gaza.
Legal Challenges and Diplomatic Tensions
Campaign groups have submitted formal legal requests to British authorities, urging them to detain President Herzog under the principle of universal jurisdiction. They allege his involvement in war crimes during Israel's ongoing offensive in Gaza, which has resulted in significant Palestinian casualties.
The Israeli president's visit, which includes meetings with King Charles III and Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has sparked widespread condemnation from Palestinian solidarity organizations. They argue that welcoming Herzog constitutes complicity in Israel's military operations.
Protest Movements Gather Momentum
Major demonstrations are planned outside key government buildings, with organizers promising "mass mobilization" during Herzog's engagements. The protests reflect growing public discontent with the UK government's stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Palestine Action, one of the leading groups behind the campaign, stated: "We cannot allow world leaders to welcome a man complicit in the deaths of thousands of Palestinians while pretending to uphold international law."
Government Response and Security Measures
The Metropolitan Police have acknowledged the planned protests and are implementing significant security arrangements around Herzog's engagements. Whitehall sources indicate that the government remains committed to the visit despite the controversy.
A government spokesperson maintained that "the UK has a long-standing relationship with Israel," emphasizing the importance of diplomatic dialogue during periods of conflict.
The visit occurs amidst heightened political sensitivity regarding the Middle East conflict, with the Labour Party facing particular scrutiny over its position on Gaza since taking office.
