Ed Davey to Boycott Trump Banquet Over Gaza Crisis
Published 27 August 2025
Highlights
- Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey will boycott a state banquet for Donald Trump's UK visit to protest the US president's inaction on the Gaza crisis.
- The banquet, hosted by King Charles, is part of Trump's second state visit to the UK from 17 to 19 September.
- Sir Ed believes Trump's influence could end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and secure the release of hostages.
- The decision has drawn criticism from Conservative figures, who view it as disrespectful to the King and the UK-US alliance.
- Sir Ed has expressed deep regret over declining the King's invitation, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire in Gaza.
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Rewritten Article
Ed Davey to Boycott Trump Banquet Over Gaza Crisis
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has announced his decision to boycott a state banquet hosted by King Charles in honor of US President Donald Trump, citing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza as the reason for his protest. The banquet, scheduled during Trump's second state visit to the UK from 17 to 19 September, is a prestigious event typically attended by around 150 guests, including politicians, diplomats, and celebrities.
A Stand Against Inaction
Sir Ed's decision to decline the King's invitation, which he described as an "honour," stems from his belief that President Trump holds significant influence over Israel and Gulf states, which could be pivotal in resolving the crisis in Gaza. "Boycotting the banquet is not something I ever wanted to do," Sir Ed stated, "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."
Political Reactions
The decision has sparked criticism from Conservative figures, including shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti Patel, who labeled it as "appalling judgment" and a sign of "pathetic gesture politics." She emphasized the importance of maintaining strong ties with the US, the UK's closest ally and security partner. Despite the backlash, Sir Ed remains firm in his stance, having written to King Charles to express his regret and respect for the monarchy.
The Power of Influence
In his public statements, Sir Ed highlighted Trump's potential to end the humanitarian crisis, stating, "If Donald Trump tells [Israeli Prime Minister] Benjamin Netanyahu to stop this, it ends tomorrow." He further argued that Trump's influence over Qatar and other Gulf states could facilitate the release of hostages. Sir Ed's protest aims to ensure that the issue of Gaza remains central to discussions during Trump's visit.
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Scenario Analysis
The boycott by Sir Ed Davey could have several implications for UK-US relations and the broader Middle East peace process. While it underscores the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, it may also strain diplomatic ties between the UK and the US, especially if perceived as a slight against the visiting president. Experts suggest that this move could pressure other political leaders to address the Gaza situation more directly during Trump's visit. However, it remains uncertain whether this protest will lead to tangible policy changes or influence Trump's stance on the Middle East conflict.
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has announced his decision to boycott a state banquet hosted by King Charles in honor of US President Donald Trump, citing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza as the reason for his protest. The banquet, scheduled during Trump's second state visit to the UK from 17 to 19 September, is a prestigious event typically attended by around 150 guests, including politicians, diplomats, and celebrities.
A Stand Against Inaction
Sir Ed's decision to decline the King's invitation, which he described as an "honour," stems from his belief that President Trump holds significant influence over Israel and Gulf states, which could be pivotal in resolving the crisis in Gaza. "Boycotting the banquet is not something I ever wanted to do," Sir Ed stated, "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."
Political Reactions
The decision has sparked criticism from Conservative figures, including shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti Patel, who labeled it as "appalling judgment" and a sign of "pathetic gesture politics." She emphasized the importance of maintaining strong ties with the US, the UK's closest ally and security partner. Despite the backlash, Sir Ed remains firm in his stance, having written to King Charles to express his regret and respect for the monarchy.
The Power of Influence
In his public statements, Sir Ed highlighted Trump's potential to end the humanitarian crisis, stating, "If Donald Trump tells [Israeli Prime Minister] Benjamin Netanyahu to stop this, it ends tomorrow." He further argued that Trump's influence over Qatar and other Gulf states could facilitate the release of hostages. Sir Ed's protest aims to ensure that the issue of Gaza remains central to discussions during Trump's visit.
What this might mean
The boycott by Sir Ed Davey could have several implications for UK-US relations and the broader Middle East peace process. While it underscores the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, it may also strain diplomatic ties between the UK and the US, especially if perceived as a slight against the visiting president. Experts suggest that this move could pressure other political leaders to address the Gaza situation more directly during Trump's visit. However, it remains uncertain whether this protest will lead to tangible policy changes or influence Trump's stance on the Middle East conflict.
