
At today’s statement in the House of Commons on the Middle East, Foreign Secretary David Lammy set out the government’s view that the Israeli people want a ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza and how UK recognition of Palestinian statehood must come at the time of maximum impact.
On the need for a ceasefire, Lammy said: “Netanyahu should listen to the Israeli people, some 82% of whom desperately want a ceasefire, and to the hostages’ families, because they know a ceasefire offers the best chance to bring their loved ones home. Those hostages may be hidden in cramped tunnels under the ruins of Gaza, but we will not forget them, or Hamas’s despicable actions, and we will continue to demand their unconditional release.”
Later, in response to several questions regarding whether the UK will unilaterally recognise Palestinian statehood, he said: “I say politely to my hon. Friend that when last year some countries took a step to recognition, it did not change things on the ground. She asks with passion, what is going on? My focus is what is going on and trying to alleviate the suffering. While I recognise the debate on recognition, and we must move to recognition at the appropriate point, I say to her politely that, in terms of this conflict, I do not believe in all honesty that recognition would change the situation on the ground.”
You can read the full debate here.