Here is my latest statement on the situation in Gaza together with the letter I co signed with 72 other Labour MPs which argues that recognition of Palestinian statehood must come as soon as possible.
The situation in Gaza for Palestinian civilians concerns us all. I call on the Israeli Government to immediately stop the blockade of humanitarian aid into Gaza to prevent further famine and suffering for Palestinian civilians, with children bearing the brunt of the suffering. The language of some in the Israeli Government around forcible displacement of Palestinians, if enacted, would be a contravention of international law.
As I have said previously, there must be an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the allowance of aid into Gaza and the return of the remaining hostages and work towards a two-state solution for lasting peace, as also called for by the UK Labour Government since they were elected in July of last year, and I recognise and welcome their consistent efforts on the world stage towards this goal.
I urge the UK Government to recognise the State of Palestine; this was a Labour manifesto commitment but now the situation in Gaza and the West Bank means this is necessary in the immediate future.
As President Macron has announced France’s support for this and the intention to bring this to the UN Conference in June, now is time to further our work and leadership with international partners and make this recognition a reality. It would also see Britain meet its historic and contemporary responsibility to the Palestinian people and the region as a whole.
