UK's Liberal Democrat leader to boycott King Charles’ banquet for Trump over Gaza war

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has confirmed he will not attend the state banquet in Windsor Castle for US President Donald Trump, citing Washington’s refusal to pressure 'Israel' to halt its war in Gaza.

The dinner, hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla during Trump’s second state visit to the UK from September 17 to 19, is intended as a centerpiece of the trip. Davey said he could not in good conscience attend, given the worsening situation in Gaza.

"The humanitarian crisis in Gaza must stop. The famine must end. The hostages must be returned home. There is one man, more than anyone else, who has the power to make it happen," Davey said. "Donald Trump could do those things today if he chose to. He has more power than anyone else finally to force a ceasefire and put Israel and Palestine on the path to a lasting peace, with a two-state solution. But so far, he’s decided not to. Instead, he’s given Netanyahu his full support."

Speaking to BBC Radio 4, Davey explained that his faith shaped his decision. "I had to pray about it. I am a Christian, and my wife and I go to our local church, St Andrew’s and St Mark’s, very regularly. My faith is very important to me and to my wife, and although… other people say religion doesn’t impact your politics, it does impact mine. I don’t talk about it very much, but on this I had to be very honest, I’ve thought and prayed about this. I really have."

The Liberal Democrat leader has repeatedly raised Gaza in parliament, pressing the Labour government to apply greater pressure on 'Israel'. His party also called for a full arms embargo on 'Israel' last year.

On Thursday, Davey said he could not accept the idea of Trump "being honoured with a lavish dinner at one of our finest palaces, and no one reminds him that he has the power to stop the horrifying starvation, death and captivities in Gaza."

According to Gaza’s health ministry, at least 62,966 Palestinians have been killed and 159,266 injured since the war began.

Davey admitted it went against his instincts to turn down a royal invitation, but said the moral weight of the situation left him no alternative.

Writing in The Guardian, he noted, "Boycotting the state banquet is not something I ever wanted to do, but I believe it is the only way I can send a message to both Donald Trump and Keir Starmer that they cannot close their eyes and wish this away."