MP Palestine Statement

Thu 25 Sep, 11:52

Earlier this month, I had the privilege of attending Banbury’s commemoration of the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain. Last month, I joined the town’s Victory over Japan (VJ) Day event. These occasions are deeply moving, as we honour the sacrifices of past generations and reaffirm our commitment to working for peace.

Regrettably, despite our best efforts, we have failed to achieve this goal. The war following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine shows no signs of abating. I stand unapologetically with the people of Ukraine, victims of unprovoked aggression. Putin’s actions in Georgia, Syria, Ukraine, and violations of NATO allies’ sovereign territory, including Poland, demonstrate his disregard for peace.

However, the most glaring failure of Western nations lies in the Middle East, a region I visited in July.

On 7 October 2023, Hamas committed atrocities against innocent people, including murder, sexual violence, and kidnapping. Almost two years later some hostages have not been released, and others will never return to their families alive. Israel, quite rightly in my opinion, garnered global sympathy after these events.

Yet, the response in Gaza has been a humanitarian catastrophe that shames the world. The debate over whether this constitutes ‘genocide’ is secondary to the reality: an avoidable tragedy for which the Israeli government bears responsibility.

The United Nations has declared a famine, with thousands dying from hunger and airstrikes. This follows decades of Palestinian oppression in Gaza and the West Bank, where illegal settlement expansion and violence continue unabated.

Our government has taken positive steps, surpassing its predecessor by restoring aid to UNRWA, halting trade deal negotiations with Israel, and suspending direct arms sales used in the conflict. I am encouraged that the Prime Minister has heeded calls from myself and colleagues to recognise a Palestinian state. However, the situation for Palestinians has only worsened, demanding bolder action. And I know from my emails that is what my constituents demand.

A ceasefire, let alone a lasting two-state solution, is unlikely without the full commitment of the United States. Nevertheless, the UK can act decisively. We should impose further sanctions on Israeli officials responsible for policies devastating Gaza, prevent indirect arms sales fuelling the conflict, and leverage soft power through cultural, sporting, or trade measures to pressure Israel to stop.

These are steps our government can take, and I will continue to advocate for them as part of my commitment to peace.

Sean