The UK’s statement at the UN Security Council meeting emphasizes the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza, highlighting the devastating humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region. The current situation is catastrophic, with Israel blocking all aid entering Gaza, resulting in bakeries closing, hospitals and desalination plants running on generators, and a high risk of violating international humanitarian law.
The UK calls for the protection of civilians and safe, rapid, unimpeded humanitarian access. Israel must fulfill its international obligations and allow for a rapid and unhindered resurgence in the flow of aid, including medical equipment, shelter items, and water and sanitation equipment.
Furthermore, the UK urges all parties to return to dialogue and implement the ceasefire agreement in full, including scaling up aid and releasing the 59 hostages held by Hamas. The UK emphasizes that a negotiated two-state solution is the best way to ensure long-term security for both Israelis and Palestinians.
*Key Demands:*
– _Immediate Ceasefire_: A halt to fighting to prevent further civilian casualties and humanitarian suffering.
– _Humanitarian Access_: Unimpeded access for aid, including medical equipment, shelter items, and water and sanitation equipment.
– _Release of Hostages_: The unconditional release of the 59 hostages held by Hamas.
– _Two-State Solution_: A negotiated solution to ensure long-term security for both Israelis and Palestinians.
The UK’s stance is clear: the conflict cannot be resolved through military means, and humanitarian aid should never be used as a political tool. The international community must work together to bring this terrifying situation back from the brink and ensure a lasting peace.
