Complicit: Britain's Role in the Destruction of Gaza

by Peter Oborne

A Sunday Times Bestseller

From one of Britain’s most celebrated political journalists, a fearless and forensic indictment of British complicity in the destruction of Gaza.

In a gripping narrative informed by original reporting, Peter Oborne tells how Britain’s Conservative and Labour parties converged to back Israel’s criminal assault—in the process occupying disturbing common ground with the far right.

Rather than challenge this political cartel, British media colluded in its misrepresentations. The shocking result was that, as British authorities helped Israel set Gaza as well as international law aflame, almost everything the public was told about this momentous conflagration was untrue.

When citizens still turned out in their hundreds of thousands to demand a ceasefire, roiling the nation’s politics as they stayed faithful to the ancient British tradition of popular protest in defence of liberty, the political-media machine bared its fangs. The investigative reporting in this book exposes the methods by which peaceful demonstrations were smeared as “hate marches”.

Formerly chief political commentator at the Daily Telegraph and Spectator, Oborne knows the British establishment from within. In this book he names names and provides receipts. His demand is accountability—for atrocities, and their accomplices.

437 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2025

Reviews

[The Contented · Rating 4 out of 5]

A powerful, heartfelt ending.

[Mark Pedlar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book, like his previous “The Fate of Abraham.” The writer gives deft summaries of the historical background and previous atrocities that were the prelude and preparation for the present onslaught. He also covers the grovelling dishonesty of our political leaders with knowledge and expertise. Such a comprehensive, honest and fully referenced work.

[Jon M · Rating 3 out of 5]

A 3* review feels very harsh for this book, as it is without a doubt a 'must read', but at the same time, I cannot help feel a little bit dissapointed after reading it.

I cannot put my finger on why, maybe a large part of it is due to the fact I am married to a Gazan. So nothing in this book 'suprises' me. I have been very very much aware of the painful hypocrisy of our country ove the last 2 years, more so than most.

I guess I was expecting more of an 'insiders view' into the complicity of our country. Perhaps a 'fly on the wall' type analsysis (Similar to Bob Woodwards 'war' which I have just read', which uses interviews with sources to get a read understanding of discussing within government. But maybe I was being too hopeful, it is not every journalist who is able to have access to this level of infrmation, certtainly not one as opposed to the governments agenda as Oborne.

Peter is clearly a very principled journalist, spreading the truth, which is why a 3* feels very harsh. Chapters on the media lies over October 7th were particularly informative and infuriating, as well as the scandal regarding the house speaker.

Overall a must read book, especially for anybody who is not quite as informed and connected to this conflict as many who are related / friends with people from Gaza.

[MARTINE OBORNE · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forensic examination of the complicity of British politicians and media in Netanyahu's genocide in Gaza. A must read.