Violence in Israel and Palestine – May 2024 Update

Since October, I have been working tirelessly on trying to pressure the Government to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and to support calls for an immediate ceasefire.

I have included below the specific links to my previous monthly updates which may be helpful:

I have spoken in numerous debates in Parliament, submitted written questions and supported many motions all relating to this conflict and the need for peace, click here.

Family Reunification Visa Scheme for Palestinians

The UK Government must do all it can to minimise the sheer scale of suffering of the people in Gaza.

I believe the UK must show compassion and urgently take action to help thousands of desperate Palestinians in need by introducing a Family Reunification Visa Scheme, as we did when the war broke out in Ukraine. This Scheme would enable Palestinians in the Gaza region to be able to seek legitimate, safe avenues to unite with loved ones settled in the UK.

This is why I added my name to Rachael Maskell MP’s cross-party letter calling on the Government to urgently introduce a Family Reunification Visa Scheme for Palestinians, read the letter here. I further raised this in Parliament, watch here.

Arms trade with Israel

Due to the announcement of a General Election, the debate in Parliament on ending arms sales to Israel on Thursday 23rd May was cancelled.

However, I remain gravely concerned and horrified by the scenes coming out of Rafah. The UK Government must condemn Netanyahu’s actions in the strongest possible terms, call for a ceasefire, and suspend arms sales immediately.

I have urged the Conservative Government to impose an arms embargo on Israel to prevent the risk of genocide on two occasions in Parliament, watch this here and here.

Jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court

The International Criminal Court’s Chief Prosecutor, Karim Khan KC, filed applications for the arrest warrants for the leaders of Hamas, Prime Minister Netanyahu and Israel’s Defence Minister, Yoav Gallant. I believe the UK Government must respect the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court and condemn any threats and attempts to undermine the independence and impartiality of the International Criminal Court. I joined over 100 parliamentarians from 11 different parties calling on the UK Government to do all it can to support the Court. Read the letter here.

Recognition of the State of Palestine

A call for peace is needed now more than ever. I strongly believe that in the pursuit of peace and justice for the people of Palestine, Palestinian statehood must be recognised.

I would like to thank everyone who has contacted me since October about this critical ongoing issue. I will continue to do everything I can to make a meaningful difference by advocating for an immediate ceasefire and a long-lasting, peaceful two-state solution in the region.