Like many constituents I have spoken with, I am horrified by the appalling, unrelenting scenes in Gaza.
This war must end now, which is why I continue to make the case for an immediate ceasefire, complied with by both sides.
In the face of the growing horror in the Middle East, the UK has now officially recognised the state of Palestine.
This historic decision, taken by the Labour Government, alongside some of our closest allies, reflects our unwavering commitment to a two-state solution and affirms the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to self-determination. It delivers on our manifesto commitment.
Since July, when the Prime Minister pledged to act, the dire situation in the region has only worsened. The horrific scenes in Gaza, the illegal settlements in the West Bank, and the actions of Hamas mean the prospect of a two-state solution is fading fast.
I firmly believe that a two-state solution is the only path to ensure a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable Palestinian State. At the moment, we have neither. So it is our historic and moral responsibility to act. The plight of the hostages still captured in Gaza remains at the forefront of all our minds.
The Prime Minister has met the families of the British-linked hostages and heard first-hand their suffering. He will keep supporting every effort to bring them home. This decision is not a reward for Hamas. They are a brutal terrorist organisation that wants to see Israel destroyed. Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace with recognised borders is the exact opposite of their hateful vision.
Our demands on Hamas have not changed. It must release all hostages, agree to an immediate ceasefire, accept it will have no role in governing Gaza, and commit to disarmament. But Hamas are not the Palestinian people.
Our decision to recognise Palestine is firmly grounded in the Palestinian people’s inalienable right to self-determination, and the right of Palestinians and Israelis alike to live their lives in peace – free from violence and suffering.
For years, British governments have called for a two-state solution but have only recognised one state. Recognition of Palestine reflects the equal rights of and equal esteem in which we hold the Israeli and Palestinian peoples.
Our support for Israel’s right to exist and the security of its people remains steadfast. But the Israeli government must change course – halting their offensive in Gaza, letting the desperately needed humanitarian aid in, and stopping their illegal settlement expansion in the West Bank. Recognition is not enough on its own.
That’s why we are also building consensus with leaders in the region around our Framework for Peace – a series of steps that can take us from a ceasefire to a permanent end to the conflict. But this sends a clear message that there can be a better future.
