The ongoing scenes of violence and destruction in Gaza are heartbreaking and completely unacceptable. The ongoing blockade of humanitarian aid is intolerable and must end.
Scottish Labour continues to demand an immediate return to ceasefire, immediate access to humanitarian aid, the immediate release of all hostages and a credible pathway to a two-state solution where the people of Israel and Palestine can both live in peace and security.
Labour is deeply committed to the upholding of international humanitarian law which is why the UK Government has supported actions to allow the ICC and ICJ freedom to do their important work. The UK Labour Government have also tightened up arms export controls and increased sanctions have been imposed on settlers because of the unacceptable and violent expansion of the West Bank.
It is important to separate Hamas from the Palestinian people, which is why the collective punishment of the Palestinian people must end. But it is also important to distinguish the Israeli people from Benjamin Netanyahu. It is clear that he and his and far-right government are now acting as a barrier to peace and long term security for the people of Israel and the region.
Labour have said that the UK Government will not stand by while the Netanyahu Government continues with these intolerable actions and escalation of conflict. It is not compatible with the values of our nation. If Israel does not cease the renewed military offensive and lift its restrictions on humanitarian aid, the Government have been clear in the joint statement issued this week with France and Canada that it is prepared to take further concrete actions in response.
Ultimately violence is not the answer, and peace will only come through dialogue and diplomacy. That will require renewed international efforts and is why the Labour Government continues to press and work with allies and international partners, to condemn the blockade, seek a return to ceasefire, demand the return of hostages and pursue negotiations on a long term peace settlement.
I share the heartbreak of what is happening in Gaza. We want the violence to stop immediately and to see a peaceful resolution that protects the sanctity of life regardless of people’s race, faith, nationality or background.