As you will be aware, in January, the Israeli Government and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire agreement. The agreement is a multi-stage deal, where both sides agree to pause fighting and start exchanging hostages and prisoners.
I wholeheartedly support the ceasefire agreement, and I am pleased that the agreement continues to hold.
However, the ceasefire remains fragile, and it must be sustained. Both sides must implement each deal phase in full and on time. Letting the chance for a ceasefire and a lasting peace slip would be a tragedy. We must support the region in building a path to a two-state solution, resulting in a sovereign Palestinian state, including the West Bank and Gaza, and a safe and secure Israel.
On 5 March 2025, the Foreign Secretary issued a joint statement with the Foreign Ministers of France and Germany.
The statement reiterated the joint support for the ceasefire, the release of the hostages held by Hamas, and the continued flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
The government expressed its concern at the halting of all goods and supplies into Gaza, and I share their assertion that Israel must abide by its international obligations to ensure full, rapid, safe and unhindered provision of humanitarian assistance.
Israel must also end its presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including illegal settlements in the West Bank, as quickly as possible. In October, the Government issued new sanctions against settler outposts and organisations that have supported and sponsored violence against communities in the West Bank. Sanctions are an important tool when used carefully. However, commenting on future sanctions measures would reduce their impact.
I once again reiterate my support for the two-state solution, with two secure, stable and democratic states in Israel and Palestine living side-by-side in peace. Palestinians must not be moved to neighbouring Arab states against their will, and I oppose any attempt to reduce the territory of Gaza. Palestinians must be able to return to and rebuild their homes and their lives, a right guaranteed under international law.
Thank you to those who contacted me about this important subject.
