My letter to the Foreign Secretary about Gaza

Please find a copy of my letter to the Foreign Secretary Lord David Cameron below.

Dear David,

First of all, can I congratulate you on your appointment yesterday as Foreign Secretary.

Over the last month I have been contacted by hundreds of constituents expressing their grave concerns about the developing humanitarian situation in Gaza.

It is very clear to everyone that Gaza is now a humanitarian emergency. The whole world has been shocked and appalled by the numbers of innocent lives lost over the last few weeks in Israel and Gaza. It is imperative that the international community do more to address the crisis – and that Britain uses its influence to be a voice for peace.

Could you therefore please set out what the UK is doing to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza and to work with international partners to give UN agencies the long-term resources they need?

We all agree that Israel has a right to defend itself, like any other country, to keep its people safe and bring the more than 200 hostages still being held captive in Gaza home.  However, I am sure you will agree with me that Israel’s operation must be conducted within international law. Civilians must not be targeted and innocent lives must be protected.

Could you please set out the meetings the Government has had with Israel about ensuring all operations are conducted within international law?

Ultimately, we need a lasting peace – a political solution that lays the groundwork for a meaningful, permanent ceasefire. MPs across the House are committed to a two-state solution where Israeli citizens live free from the fear of terrorist attacks, and a future for the Palestinian people where they and their children enjoy freedoms and opportunities we take for granted. 

Whilst I am pleased by the Government’s support for a two-state solution, there needs to be far more active diplomacy and pressure from key players to achieve this. The international community has been falling short in its attention to resolving the conflict.

Can the Government outline what practical steps it has been taking towards achieving a two-state solution?

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

Rt Hon Dame Diana Johnson