Like so many people in Weston and across the UK, I have watched in horror as the crisis in Gaza has deepened and I believe the UK has a duty to act.
The recognition of the State of Palestine is a vital political step. Not as a reward to Hamas, nor as a punishment to Israel, but as a clear signal of support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination. As Labour Friends of Palestine & the Middle East rightly say, it affirms the Palestinian Authority as the internationally recognised representative of Palestine, and helps shift UK foreign policy toward a more just, balanced and sustainable position.
But statehood recognition alone will not feed starving families in Gaza or stop the ongoing atrocities being committed. That’s why the immediate priority must remain securing a lasting ceasefire, opening up humanitarian land routes, getting medical supplies into Gaza, and freeing hostages. These are not abstract policy goals, they are matters of life and death.
I support the UK Government’s recent announcement to move toward recognition in partnership with key allies at the UN General Assembly in September. It’s a significant step forward that will add pressure, multiply diplomatic leverage, and help bring others to the table. Recognition must be paired with a new international effort to end the suffering and build lasting peace, including meaningful steps by both the Israeli government and Hamas.
I’ve spoken to many constituents who feel powerless watching this unfold. Pushing for recognition, humanitarian relief, and justice is the least we should be doing.
I will continue to work alongside colleagues in Parliament to call for:
- Unrestricted humanitarian aid through land routes
- An immediate and permanent ceasefire
- A comprehensive prohibition on arms sales to Israel
- Sanctions against all inciting violence, including members of the Israeli Government
- A halt to settlement expansion and violence in the West Bank
- Referral to the International Criminal Court for allegations of war crimes, including those involving aid workers
- Medical and food supplies for civilians
- Diplomatic support for a two-state solution
- The recognition of Palestine as part of a serious, just peace process
This is not about taking sides, it’s about standing up for human life, international law, and the principle that no people should be denied dignity, freedom, or safety.
We must not look away. We must act.
