In a statement on the end of the cessation of hostilities between
Israel and Hamas, , Leader of the Labour Party,
said:
“The end of the cessation of hostilities in Gaza is deeply
concerning, I urge all sides not to squander progress made over
the last week.
“All sides must work for a return to cessation that would allow
for the release of more hostages, provide much needed time and
space to tackle the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and open a
dialogue for a political solution that provides for a long-term,
cessation of hostilities.
“We will only reach that long-term solution if Israel is assured
that Hamas cannot carry out an attack like October 7 ever again.
Those who can influence Hamas must demand they release the
remaining hostages immediately.
“The levels of death and destruction over the past weeks has been
intolerable. Far too many innocent Palestinians, including women
and children, have been killed as part of military operations.
There must be full accountability for all actions.
“As fighting sadly resumes, Israel must not besiege or blockade
Gaza. They must comply with international law by protecting
innocent lives and civilian infrastructure like schools and
hospitals.
“With winter coming and the people in Gaza being forced to live
in an ever-smaller section of the strip, attempts to address the
humanitarian catastrophe cannot regress, aid must be ramped up.
The people of Gaza need aid, food, water, fuel, shelter, and
medicine in huge volumes, to ensure hospitals function and lives
are saved. We know the risk of disease is high and must be
mitigated.
“Those displaced in this conflict also need assurances of their
right to return home and rebuild their lives. Gaza cannot be left
as a refugee camp, there can be no reoccupation or reduction of
its territory.
“The UK and partners must start work immediately to find a
pathway to an enduring cessation of hostilities and a lasting
political solution. We want to see the threat of Hamas removed,
the end to illegal settlements and settler violence in the West
Bank, and a plan for the reconstruction and renewal of
Gaza.
“Palestinians must be assured their future will not be like the
past, that they and their children will be able to enjoy the
security, opportunities and rights that we take for
granted.
“That will not be easy. Diplomatic work never is. But the past
few days have shown what diplomacy can do.
“These are the essential steps if we are to deliver a two-state
solution, with a Palestinian state alongside a safe and secure
Israel, the only credible basis for long-term peace.
“Military action without this sort of plan cannot succeed.”
