In a powerful appeal, more than 100 former diplomats from France and Britain assert that Palestine is facing erasure on the global stage. They call for urgent measures, including bans on trade and arms sales, to encourage Israel to recognize Palestine as a state. Their unprecedented letter challenges traditional diplomatic norms, directly accusing Israel of ethnic cleansing and emphasizing that the international community no longer views Israel as a genuine democracy.
The Historical Responsibility of Britain and France
The diplomats emphasize that both Britain and France played pivotal roles in shaping the modern Middle East and have a responsibility to advocate for equal rights for both Israelis and Palestinians. In 2025, they note, these nations recognized Palestine as a state, reinforcing their obligation to push for Palestinian self-determination amid ongoing conflict. Their letter is addressed to French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Andy Burnham, asserting that immediate action is essential in addressing the plight of the Palestinian people.
Featuring signatures from 52 French diplomats and 50 British ambassadors, the letter includes many who have served in key Middle Eastern posts. Notable signatories include former UN envoys and other high-ranking officials with direct experience in the region, underscoring the credibility and urgency of their message. They stress the moral imperative for their governments to act decisively in the face of escalating violence and suffering.
The Urgent Call for Action
Just days before the letter’s release, the UK and France, alongside nine other countries, condemned Israel’s announcement regarding construction projects for the E1 settlement. They described these developments as threatening peace and damaging Israel’s global standing. Despite this condemnation, it lacked specific repercussions, with officials warning businesses of potential legal and reputational risks associated with unlawful settlements. The UK Foreign Secretary deemed the tenders for 1,200 homes a significant threat to the viability of a two-state solution.
In light of the letter, the former diplomats are advocating for specific actions, including suspending trade agreements that violate human rights, halting arms transfers, and insisting on unrestricted access for aid to Gaza. They also propose specific measures to deter companies from participating in the E1 settlement project, urging their governments to hold accountable those who contribute to the ongoing erasure of Palestinian rights.
Balancing Criticism and Calling for Enhanced Governance
While the letter strongly critiques Israel’s actions, it also holds Palestinian leadership accountable for creating a democratic state that adheres to the rule of law. The diplomats argue that any future governance must be rooted in political unity between Gaza and the West Bank and stress the importance of upcoming elections in Palestine for achieving this goal. Their assertion highlights the need for not only international support but also for Palestine to take significant internal steps to ensure representation and accountability.
In their urgent appeal, they state, “Our governments care about the security of the Israeli people, just as they are appalled by the suffering of the Palestinian people.” This dual focus underscores a profound recognition of the complex realities of the conflict while reiterating the pressing need for action to secure the future of both nations. The letter aims to motivate tangible change that would pave the way for a legitimate path toward lasting peace in the region.