Hamish Falconer said such a move, at a time when the humanitarian crisis in Gaza was catastrophic and worsening, would "neither be in Israel's interest or realistic".
His remarks were the strongest criticism yet by a western government minister of the legislation, which could be voted on this week unless the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, intervenes.
Falconer was speaking as a joint statement was released from seven European foreign ministries, including the UK's, urging Israel to drop the bill, saying: "It is crucial that Unrwa and other UN organisations be fully able to deliver humanitarian aid and their assistance to those who need it most, fulfilling their mandates effectively."
This story is from the October 28, 2024 edition of The Guardian.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the October 28, 2024 edition of The Guardian.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Patience finally snapped at Old Trafford after bosses grew tired of the excuses
There were plenty of times over the past 14 months when sacking Erik ten Hag would have been justified but Manchester United clung on in the hope he could somehow turn things around.
Ten Hag saga is major black eye for Ineos as United's brand is dying
Ratcliffe now has a hugely important decision if his club are to stop being a fading heritage exhibition
Taking United job would be enormous risk for Amorim
job would be enormous risk for Amorim
A view from the stands Going full Woodward is incompetent or cowardly
It was about half an hour after the final whistle at the FA Cup final when I had my exchange with Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Van Nistelrooy has learned from the very best coaches
Dutchman took inspiration from Bielsa, Ferguson, Simeone and Robson in developing his own style
Rodri and Bonmati scoop top prizes as Real boycott big night
Rodri and Aitana Bonmati have been named winners at the 2024 Ballon d'Or at football's annual awards ceremony in Paris, their trophies handed out at the end of a bizarre day in which Real Madrid's delegation opted not to attend.
Stanway: Lionesses must evolve as plateau is 'inevitable'
Georgia Stanway said it is \"inevitable\" that England will plateau after their huge success and that they need to reinvent themselves to avoid becoming predictable.
Everything's starting to come together
Jack Draper's improvement in his breakthrough season has resulted from his greater fearlessness under pressure
Verstappen's ruthless streak on show again in Norris battle
Two races and two flashpoints, the world championship battle between Max Verstappen and Lando Norris is in full flow.
Curry poised for England return against All Blacks
Sale flanker expected to start after recovery from hip injury that threatened his career
