Commenting on White House talks between United States President
Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, First
Minister said:
“I welcome all diplomatic efforts to stop this conflict and end
the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza.
“The United States of America is uniquely capable of influencing
the direction of events, but the entire international community
must continue to use all its energy to persuade and pressurise
Prime Minister Netanyahu to end the violence and return to a
peace process. There were encouraging signs at the United Nations
General Assembly, but decisive action is still required.
“As Israel's military action in Gaza City continues to cause
death and displacement, a ceasefire must be declared immediately,
all hostages released and the flow of humanitarian aid increased.
I continue to share the concerns of other countries and
international leaders that a genocide appears to be unfolding in
Gaza. The Israeli government must commit to end the killing and
comply with its international obligations on the investigation of
genocide and war crimes.
“Following that, a two-state solution is the only option that can
provide lasting peace, prosperity and security for both the state
of Palestine and the state of Israel.
“Hamas must play no role in the future of that Palestinian state.
I have consistently and unequivocally condemned the brutal
terrorist attacks carried out by Hamas in October 2023 and repeat
my previous calls for the immediate and unconditional release of
all hostages.”
