Over 300 Foreign Office staff expressed their worries about the UK's stance on Israel in a letter to top diplomat David Lammy, accusing the country of undermining global norms by not taking action against Israel. They also raised concerns about efforts to avoid discussing Gaza during staff meetings and called for transparency in legal advice and a potential halt to arms sales.

Foreign Office Permanent Under-Secretary Olly Robbins and Second Permanent Under-Secretary Nick Dyer responded on May 29, acknowledging the importance of challenging policy but reminding staff of available mechanisms for those uncomfortable with government decisions. They suggested speaking to line managers or staff counselors and highlighted resignation from the civil service as an honorable option for those with deep disagreements.

The officials emphasized that while criticism of government policy is acceptable, civil servants are expected to support government policies wholeheartedly.

The Foreign Office has condemned the situation in Gaza, labeling it as 'intolerable' and calling for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the facilitation of aid into the region.