The scenes unfolding in Gaza are a humanitarian catastrophe, with little to no aid getting through to people on the ground who are living in horrific circumstances. The situation is intolerable and comes after almost two years of conflict that has seen over 60,000 Palestinians killed, internal displacement and destruction on an enormous scale, and the restriction of aid by Israel in breach of international law. The situation has deteriorated even further in recent months, with the UN confirming mounting evidence of famine. This crisis has caused so much human misery and cannot be allowed to go on.
We believe that any hope for a lasting solution to the conflict requires the recognition of a Palestinian state.
The UK Government has made a significant Statement on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the recognition of a Palestinian State which brings this closer. We welcome the Government’s efforts to develop a wider peace plan towards a two state solution and to push for an immediate ceasefire, the free flow of aid into Gaza and the return of the remaining hostages who have been in captivity since October 7th.
We also welcome the Government’s efforts to stabilise the crisis in the West Bank and to challenge both the rise in settler violence and the actions of the current Israeli Government to expand illegal settlements.
As local elected representatives we have a role to listen to the concerns of our residents. We know they want to see real action taken after years of suffering. So we will continue to call for an immediate ceasefire, unfettered humanitarian access, accountability and for the recognition of the Palestinian state as soon as possible without pre-conditions.