Sarwar: Netanyahu ‘Not a Partner in Peace’ on Gaza Offensive

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Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has described Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as “not a partner in peace” and suggested the Israeli premier may eventually face scrutiny from international courts over actions in Gaza.

Sarwar’s comments come amid reports of a planned Israeli offensive to take control of Gaza City, a move he criticised strongly.

While UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer described the plans as “wrong,” Sarwar was more direct, labelling Netanyahu a “war criminal” in remarks made to the Press Association.

“The problem here is Benjamin Netanyahu, his government’s ongoing occupation, and apparent disregard for international law and human life,” Sarwar said. “He poses a danger both to Israelis and Palestinians, as well as to regional stability in the Middle East.”

Sarwar acknowledged the violence perpetrated by Hamas, describing the group as a terrorist organisation responsible for attacks on 7 October 2023, but insisted Netanyahu was not acting in the interests of peace.

“We all must be clear that Netanyahu is not a partner for peace,” he added.

The Scottish Greens have called for the UK Government to expel the Israeli ambassador, but Sarwar said he did not support such “stunts,” favouring diplomacy instead.

Diplomatic efforts to end the conflict have so far been unsuccessful, Sarwar noted, but warned against cutting off communication with Israel.

“Diplomacy has yet to end the war, but ceasing dialogue with the Israeli government is unlikely to help,” he said.

Sarwar also raised the possibility of serious legal consequences for Israel’s actions in Gaza.

“There is a plausible case for genocide that the Israeli government may have to answer to at the International Criminal Court and International Court of Justice,” he stated.

Despite the ongoing conflict, Sarwar expressed hope that the war could end through increased international pressure, urging the United States to play a key role.

“If anyone can influence Israel, it is the US President,” he said, referencing former President Donald Trump.

When asked about the UK Government’s role, Sarwar acknowledged efforts made but suggested more could be done.

“They have done a lot, but there is more to consider,” he said.

Scottish Green co-leader Lorna Slater accused the UK Government of being complicit in what she described as a “genocide” in Gaza.

“Urging restraint is insufficient; arms sales and military collaboration with Israel must cease,” Slater said. “The UK must consider sanctions and diplomatic actions, including expelling the Israeli ambassador.”

Slater described the UK’s foreign policy on the issue as “a disgraceful chapter” that risks complicity in serious war crimes.

The UK Government has not responded to requests for comment.

Separately, Scottish First Minister John Swinney condemned the announcement of the offensive.

“The Israeli Government’s decision to take control of Gaza City is unacceptable,” Swinney said in a statement posted on X. “It will cause more suffering for Palestinians and escalate the conflict further.”

He called on the international community to intervene and secure a ceasefire.