Sir Ed Davey will boycott the state banquet for Donald Trump to signal urgency over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the release of hostages. He regards an invitation from the King as an honour but believes refusing attendance is necessary to convey a clear message. He argues that Trump has influence over Israeli leadership and Gulf states, and could use that influence to halt starvation, prevent further deaths in Gaza and secure immediate hostage releases. The state visit runs from 17 to 19 September and includes a banquet at St George's Hall, Windsor Castle attended by around 150 guests.
There is no honour like an invitation from the King, and not to accept his invitation goes against all of our instincts. But I fear we could have a situation where Donald Trump comes to our country, is honoured with a lavish dinner at one of our finest palaces, yet no one reminds him that he has the power to stop the horrifying starvation and death in Gaza and get the hostages released.
If Donald Trump tells [Israeli Prime Minister] Benjamin Netanyahu to stop this, it ends tomorrow. If Donald Trump uses his influence over Qatar and other Gulf states that Hamas relies on, all the hostages could come home tomorrow. Boycotting the banquet is the one way I can send a message to Donald Trump and Keir Starmer that they can't close their eyes and wish this away. We have to speak up, they have to act.
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