The events that have unfolded in the last week in Israel and Gaza are truly horrifying and I thank all those constituents who have been in touch with me.
I join the UK Government in wholly condemning the terrorist attacks perpetrated by Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad that began on 7 October, and welcome the UK’s steadfast support for Israel as it seeks to defend itself against these atrocities. My thoughts are with those who have been affected, especially the families of those who have been murdered or taken hostage.
The terrorist attacks perpetrated by Hamas are heinous and unprecedented, and I firmly support Israel’s right to defend itself, as guaranteed by Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. The UK Prime Minister has been active in working with other leaders to prevent the spread of violence in the region, working with our NATO allies to prevent further escalation.
The rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza is also troubling. The Prime Minister on October 16 announced a further £10 million in humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians, highlighting the importance of taking all possible measures to protect ordinary Palestinians and facilitate humanitarian aid.
It is also vital that the international community works together to relieve the impact on civilians, a point the UK Prime Minister emphasised during his meeting with the Prime Minister of Sweden ahead of the Joint Expeditionary Force Summit in Gotland on 13 October. I understand that he has also spoken with the Egyptian President to underscore the importance of opening the Rafah crossing to allow for humanitarian access and provide a route for British and other nationals to leave Gaza. UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office officials have also been closely engaged with UN efforts to secure humanitarian access and scale up the response.
This is a terrible situation and it is vital that at this time we support all communities in the UK. The Government is doing everything it can to ensure that the UK is a safe place for Jewish communities. Antisemitism will not be tolerated.
I am waiting for an update on the Government’s response to the humanitarian concerns in Gaza. Of course, this is a fast-moving situation, and I will be sure to follow developments closely.
For further information on the latest announcements -
UK announces £10 million humanitarian aid for civilians in Occupied Palestinian Territories
PM announces new support to keep British Jewish communities safe
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/pm-announces-new-support-to-keep-british-jewish-communities-safe
The UK supports Israel’s right to self-defence in line with the UN Charter: UK statement at the UN Security Council