Signatories of the open letter criticising Israel's offensive in Gaza warned "Israel's soul is being ripped out and we, members of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, fear for the future of the Israel we love and have such close ties to". Israel blocked the entry of food, medicine and other supplies on 2 March and two weeks later resumed the war. Israel says it aims to pressure Hamas to release hostages and has vowed to maintain the blockade. Among the signatories was vice-chair of the international division of the Board of Deputies, Harriet Goldenberg. At least 51,025 people have been killed in Gaza since then, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry.

Source: The Times April 17, 2025 05:36 UTC