In the United Kingdom, controversy has erupted following the arrival of Israeli President Isaac Herzog. His visit, which coincides with Israel’s ongoing military actions in Gaza and strikes across the Middle East, has sparked a strong backlash from activists, human rights groups, and political figures who are calling for his arrest on allegations of war crimes and genocide.
Public Anger Over Herzog’s UK Visit
Herzog landed in London this week for a series of high-level meetings, including a scheduled discussion with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and a planned speech at the Chatham House think tank. His presence has ignited protests across the city, with demonstrators carrying Palestinian flags and accusing the British government of offering “a red carpet” to a leader linked to Israel’s deadly campaign in Gaza.
Legal Demands and Calls for Accountability
The International Centre of Justice for Palestinians (ICJP) has formally written to London’s Metropolitan Police, urging an investigation into Herzog for alleged crimes including:
- War crimes and crimes against humanity
- Torture and collective punishment
- Actions that may constitute genocide under international law
Friends of Al-Aqsa, a UK-based advocacy group, has also requested an arrest warrant and demanded criminal proceedings against Herzog for his role in supporting indiscriminate attacks on civilians and infrastructure in Gaza. The group emphasizes that more than 64,000 Palestinians have been killed since the war intensified in October 2023.
Political Pressure Builds
Prominent political voices, including Labour MPs Diane Abbott, Andy McDonald, and independent politician Jeremy Corbyn, have signed letters opposing Herzog’s visit. They argue that allowing him to meet with British leaders risks undermining the UK’s international legal obligations. Green Party leader Zack Polanski added that failing to detain Herzog could be seen as a violation of the Geneva Conventions, which require states to prosecute individuals responsible for targeting civilians.
Human Rights Concerns
Amnesty International UK noted that while Herzog’s office is largely ceremonial, he has openly defended Israel’s collective punishment of Palestinians. Human rights advocates highlight that his past comments—such as blaming the entire Palestinian population for Hamas’s actions—reveal his complicity in dehumanizing rhetoric. Activists also recall his decision to personally sign artillery shells bound for Gaza in 2023.
Protests on London Streets
Large demonstrations have taken place near Chatham House and other locations in London. Protesters have pledged to continue disrupting Herzog’s engagements through non-violent means, including banging pots and pans outside his appearances. Organizers stress that their aim is to hold leaders accountable and to amplify the voices of Palestinians under siege.
UK Government Under Scrutiny
Prime Minister Keir Starmer now faces mounting pressure to take a clear stance. Critics accuse his administration of enabling “genocide whitewashing” by engaging with Herzog at a time when public opinion is largely against Israel’s war. A recent YouGov poll showed that more than half of UK citizens believe Israel’s military campaign in Gaza is unjustified.
Commentary and Wider Implications
Herzog’s UK visit is not just a diplomatic event—it has become a litmus test for Britain’s credibility on human rights and international law. Supporters of Palestine argue that failing to act against Herzog demonstrates a double standard in applying justice. As one protester noted, “This is not only about Gaza, it’s about whether the UK stands with the oppressed or shields those accused of atrocities.”
The visit, scheduled to last until Friday, is expected to keep London’s streets busy with demonstrators and continue raising uncomfortable questions for the Labour government about its alignment with international law and public sentiment.
