I will make three points.
First, let me underscore this from the outset: the United Kingdom stands in full and unwavering solidarity with Qatar and condemns Israel’s strikes on Doha.
These strikes are a flagrant violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Qatar. They risk both further escalation across the region and setting back negotiations for a ceasefire.
We offer our condolences to the families and friends of Qatari personnel who were tragically killed. Our thoughts are with their loved ones and with the injured.
Qatar has long been a tireless broker for peace in the Middle East and beyond, and we commend the resolute commitment of His Highness The Amir to champion diplomacy and dialogue.
So to reiterate, we wholly condemn the strikes on Qatar which will do nothing to deliver peace in the Middle East, or to help safeguard Israel’s long-term security. My Prime Minister made this clear to President Herzog when they met yesterday.
And like others I welcome the clear message of support to Qatar that this Council has sent through our Press Statement today.
Second, the UK has been clear that Hamas is a terrorist organisation and we condemn the October 7th atrocities in the strongest terms.
We reiterate that Hamas must release all the hostages, sign up to an immediate ceasefire deal and commit to disarm. It can play no part in the future governance of Gaza.
Third, with each day that passes, the hostages suffer in appalling conditions, and the people of Gaza endure starvation and repeated displacement.
This week’s evacuation orders across northern Gaza will worsen the humanitarian catastrophe. The Israeli government’s decision to further escalate its offensive in Gaza is wrong, and today I reiterate that we urge Israel to reconsider immediately.
We staunchly support the efforts of Qatar, the United States and Egypt to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza, to secure the release of the hostages and bring this conflict to an end. We urge all parties to re-engage meaningfully to reach a negotiated deal.
We also need an urgent surge of humanitarian aid into Gaza. It is abhorrent that famine is unfolding in parts of Gaza City, and we need immediate action to prevent it from spreading further. Israel must lift all restrictions on aid and allow the UN to deliver life-saving aid, at scale.
President, the only way to achieve lasting peace and security for Palestinians and Israelis alike is through a political solution.
The UK will continue to work with our partners to develop a framework for long-term peace, consistent with a two-state solution.
