I deplore suffering on both sides of the Gaza-Israel conflict


Yet again, the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians has escalated in Gaza. Yet again, there is loss of life, injury and suffering on both sides. Once more, there is anger in the UK.

Let me be absolutely clear: I deplore the tragic deaths, injury and insecurity on both sides of this conflict. The position of the Palestinian people is dreadful. The position of Israel is fraught.

The BBC reports the deaths of fifteen Palestinians and three Israelis and the launch of 200 rockets from Gaza into Israel. The Foreign Secretary has said,

“I am gravely concerned by the situation in Gaza and southern Israel and deeply regret the loss of civilian life on both sides. I call on all those involved to avoid any action which risks civilian casualties or escalates the crisis.

“Hamas bears principal responsibility for the current crisis. I utterly condemn rocket attacks from Gaza into southern Israel by Hamas and other armed groups. This creates an intolerable situation for Israeli civilians in southern Israel, who have the right to live without fear of attack from Gaza. The rocket attacks also risk worsening the plight of Palestinian civilians in Gaza, which is already precarious.

“Hamas and other armed groups in Gaza should cease attacks against Israel immediately. I call on those in the region with influence over Hamas to use that influence to bring about an end to the attacks.

“I also strongly urge Israel to do their utmost to reduce tension, avoid civilian casualties and increase the prospects for both sides to live in peace. It is imperative to avoid the risk of a spiral of violence. The escalation of the conflict would be in no one’s interest, particularly at a time of instability in the region.

“These events underline once again the fragility of the situation and the urgent need for progress toward a two state solution which allows Israelis and Palestinians to live alongside each other in peace and security. Britain will do all it can to support such progress and an urgent resumptions of negotiations.”

I am convinced that this miserable conflict can only be solved by the protagonists, who should cease resorting to violence and seek peace and reconciliation around the negotiating table. In the meantime, everyone of good will in the UK should act with compassion and moderation, condemning all acts of aggression and calling for a peaceful solution.

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