UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron engaged in crucial talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem on Wednesday.
The government’s statement highlighted Cameron’s emphasis on the need for an immediate humanitarian pause to facilitate the release of hostages and aid delivery, leading to a sustainable ceasefire without a return to hostilities.
Cameron outlined conditions for this, including the requirement for Hamas to agree to release all hostages, relinquish control in Gaza, and pave the way for the Palestinian Authority to resume governance, services, and security in the region. Stressing the importance of a long-term political strategy, Cameron called for a credible and irreversible pathway toward establishing a Palestinian state alongside Israel.
Addressing the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, Cameron urged increased aid to the region. He called on Israel to open more crossing points into Gaza, extend the operation of specific crossings, and support the United Nations in the effective distribution of aid throughout Gaza.
Additionally, Cameron stressed the need for Israel to ensure effective deconfliction in Gaza and take all possible measures to safeguard medical personnel and facilities.
During his visit, Cameron also met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah, emphasizing the importance of engaging all stakeholders for a comprehensive resolution. The statement did not provide specific details on the outcome of the talks.
The statement concluded with a grim overview of the situation in Gaza, noting over 25,500 confirmed Palestinian deaths, primarily women and children, since the start of Israel’s war.
It highlighted the severe displacement, food insecurity, collapsing health system, and the challenges faced by hundreds of thousands living without shelter.
The aid delivery to the territory has also been significantly impacted, with less than half the number of trucks entering compared to before the conflict.
