The level of suffering in Gaza is appalling and unacceptable. This Government’s immediate concern is for the people of Gaza, which is why we are demanding the resumption of urgent humanitarian support to prevent starvation. We are also demanding the release of the hostages which were taken by Hamas on 7 October 2023. We strongly support the ongoing diplomatic efforts of the U.S., Qatari and Egyptian governments to arrange a ceasefire.

We are working with our international partners to develop a credible plan for a long and lasting peace. We must establish transitional governance and security arrangements. The plan must also include the withdrawal of Israeli forces and Hamas leadership from Gaza; these are key steps towards a two-state solution, with a safe and secure Israel alongside a sovereign and viable Palestinian state.

Keir Starmer has announced that we will recognise the state of Palestine in September, before the United Nations General Assembly. That is unless the Israeli Government ends the appalling station in Gaza and moves towards a long-term sustainable peace. Israel must agree to a ceasefire and allow the United Nations to provide humanitarian support. They must also confirm there will be no annexations in the West Bank.

But recognition alone will not change the situation on the ground. That is why we are taking immediate action to alleviate the humanitarian situation, including air drops of humanitarian supplies with Jordan, and getting injured children out of Gaza and into British hospitals. We are pressing strongly for UN deliveries of humanitarian assistance to resume.

We believe a ceasefire will not last without urgent work on Gazan governance and security, and the prospect of a long-term political settlement. We are therefore preparing a plan with key allies for political negotiations and a two-state solution. I will continue to press for a ceasefire, the release of hostages and a humanitarian response that the situation demands.

This situation cannot continue. The level of suffering is unsustainable, and I can assure you that, as your MP, I am doing everything I can to ensure this comes to an end.