Summary
A group of Palestinians has filed a 400-page legal petition with the UK government seeking an apology and reparations for alleged war crimes committed during the British Mandate in Palestine from 1917 to 1948. This move follows the UK's recent recognition of a Palestinian state. The allegations include violence and repression by UK forces, considered war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Key Facts
- Palestinians have submitted a legal petition to the UK government for an apology and reparations for colonial-era war crimes.
- The petition concerns events during the British Mandate in Palestine from 1917 to 1948.
- The allegations include murder, torture, expulsion, and collective punishment by British forces.
- The UK recently recognized a Palestinian state, which prompted the call for addressing historical issues.
- The BBC found evidence of these alleged abuses, such as killings and use of human shields, in a 2022 review.
- The UK Ministry of Defence stated it would review any evidence provided concerning the allegations.
- Past concessions by the UK include an apology for the Batang Kali massacre and a settlement over Mau Mau uprising abuses.
- The UK's recognition of Palestine aligns it with over 150 countries that have done the same.
