UK's new government needs Middle East reset

Britain’s new government under Foreign Secretary David Lammy needs a revamped Middle East strategy alongside its European reset, according to an article by Foreign Policy.

Lammy, who has been active since his first week, recognizes the need for repairing ties with Europe and has expressed his intent to reset the UK's bilateral relationship and its ties with the European Union. However, a similar reset is crucial in the Middle East.

Lammy’s approach, described as "reconnect and rebuild," began with calls to UAE officials and leaders in Palestine and Israel, focusing on the ongoing Gaza conflict. His first international visit in this role was to Israel and the West Bank, emphasizing the UK's commitment to a ceasefire and a two-state solution. Lammy's stance highlights the UK's need for a stronger diplomatic presence in the region.

The Middle East's credibility gap with the UK is significant, highlighted by issues like the UK's response to the Houthis in Yemen. Initially slow to recognize the threats, the UK shifted its stance only when its economic interests were threatened. This inconsistency has led to scepticism about the UK's reliability.

Lammy's background as a human rights lawyer and former prosecutor brings a nuanced perspective to counter-extremism policies, but it also raises concerns about his approach to groups like Hizb ut-Tahrir. Britain's colonial history and actions, such as the Iraq invasion, contribute to widespread scepticism of its intentions in the region. Recent refugee policies further illustrate perceived double standards, contrasting the treatment of Ukrainian refugees with those from Asian or African nations.

The UK's close alignment with US policies, historically advantageous, also ties Britain to unpopular American positions. Lammy, with his US connections, can serve as a bridge to Washington but must navigate the complex legacy of the UK's past alliances. The UK's role in Afghanistan, marked by a criticized withdrawal, remains a critical area where Lammy’s actions will be closely watched.

A clear stance on Iran is another priority. Concerns about Iran's support for militias and proxy groups have been longstanding, with recent issues like Iranian drones in Ukraine underscoring the need for a consistent policy. The UK's approach to the Ukraine conflict will also influence its global reputation, with potential abandonment of Kyiv reflecting poorly on its reliability as an ally.

As the US focuses on its elections and France on domestic issues, the UK has an opportunity to reassert itself on the world stage, emphasizing mutual interests and long-term stability. The Starmer administration's initial actions indicate a serious approach, but the true test will be in its handling of relations with Palestine, Iran, and broader regional issues.