In a stern rebuke to Israel’s policies, the UK government has reaffirmed its demand for an immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held captive by Hamas, citing the dire humanitarian situation unfolding in Gaza.
The statement, made on Wednesday at a meeting with the Israeli delegation, comes as the international community grapples with the escalating conflict in the Middle East. The UK’s foreign secretary had previously described the images of emaciated hostages paraded before cameras for propaganda as “depraved,” highlighting the urgent need for action.
The council has repeatedly called for the release of all hostages since October 7th, and this call is being reiterated today. The situation in Gaza has worsened significantly since the ceasefire ended, with reports emerging of widespread famine and medical shortages.
Doctors who have served in Gaza have spoken out about the shocking depths of suffering they have witnessed, including children whose wounds festered for months without healing due to lack of proper care. The IPC has reported that Israel’s aid restrictions have led to a humanitarian crisis, with reports of baby formula being confiscated by the IDF at the border and depriving newborns of basic essentials.
The UK is urging Israel to lift restrictions on aid delivery in line with international principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, and independence. The UN must also be able to operate safely and at scale, with all land routes opened for essential supplies including food, baby formula, medicine, fuel, and clean water.
Furthermore, the UK calls for Israel to ensure the protection of civilians, medics, and aid workers. The killing of another Palestinian Red Crescent worker by an Israeli strike on its headquarters has sparked outrage, and Israel must investigate this and other similar incidents.
The statement also highlights the importance of a two-state solution, with the UK positioning itself as a key player in achieving a plan that ends the bloodshed, brings hostages home, and lays the foundations for a Palestinian state. Statehood is recognized as an inalienable right of the Palestinian people, essential to the long-term security of Israel.
In conclusion, the UK’s reiteration of its demand for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid in Gaza serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for action in this escalating conflict. The international community must come together to ensure that those held captive by Hamas are released, and that the suffering of civilians is alleviated. A two-state solution remains the only viable path forward, with the UK ready to play its full part in achieving a peaceful resolution.
Background
The conflict in Gaza has been ongoing for years, with the current escalation sparked by recent events. The UK government’s call for action comes as the international community grapples with the humanitarian implications of the crisis.