As ever, a lot of constituents are writing to me about Gaza so I thought it would be helpful to share another update here.
I of course deeply regret the breakdown of the ceasefire and resumption of bloodshed. I join my Government colleagues in calling on Israel and Hamas to return urgently to the deal.
The ceasefire was the best chance we had seen to return the hostages to their families, dramatically increase aid to Gaza and end the conflict. The consequences of the breakdown are catastrophic, for the hostages, their loved ones and the Palestinian civilians who have already endured so much. I am also worried about the devastation of the Gazan health service and its capacity to handle further conflict.
The Government continues to consider the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice carefully. I support the decision to suspend relevant export licences to Israel. Following a rigorous process in line with the UK’s legal obligations, the Government found a clear risk that military exports to Israel, where used for military operations in Gaza, might be used in serious violations of international humanitarian law. This effectively covers all arms exports for use in the Gaza conflict.
I oppose illegal settlements in the West Bank as an obstacle to peace threatening the two-state solution. I am troubled by violent escalations there and strongly condemn settler violence and the actions of those who encourage violence and inflame tensions. I also condemn any attempts to annex Gaza or the West Bank.
Ministers are working closely with international partners to return to diplomacy as the only way to achieve security for both Israelis and Palestinians. There remains no military solution to this conflict. A two-state solution which guarantees security and stability for both Israelis and Palestinians remains the only path to a just and lasting peace.
As a Government whip I have a lot of opportunities to feed in my constituents’ views and do so whenever and wherever I can. I also frequently write to Ministers regarding constituent concerns, so please do let me know if you would like me to raise anything specific.