UK Human Rights Ambassador Eleanor Sanders statement during the
Interactive Dialogue with the High Commissioner on the Occupied
Palestinian Territories.
"High Commissioner, thank you for your update.
Back on 7 October 2023, Israel suffered the worst terror attack
in its history at the hands of Hamas: the hostages have suffered
an unbearable trauma.
The people of Gaza, so many of whom have lost their lives, homes
or loved ones, have also experienced a living nightmare.
We've been crystal clear. Palestinian civilians must be permitted
to return to their communities and rebuild. It is for
Palestinians to determine the future of Gaza. And international
humanitarian law must be respected.
In the West Bank, the UK is deeply concerned at the expansion of
Israel's war aims and operations. Civilians must be protected.
But let me be clear, the UK is opposed to the existence of item
7. The UK wants to see all countries face appropriate scrutiny of
their human rights record but opposes the disproportionate focus
of this item.
Mr President,
The UK has urged all parties to sustain the ceasefire deal,
implement the agreement in full, and support efforts to move to
phase two and a sustainable peace.
Indeed, let me reaffirm, once again, our support for a credible
pathway towards a peaceful future for both Palestinians and
Israelis, based on a two-state solution where they live
side-by-side in peace, dignity and security.
Thank you."
