Thank you for contacting me about the situation in Israel and Gaza.

The UK has been unequivocal that Israel has a right to defend itself and restore its security, remove the threat from Hamas and ensure that these attacks can never be repeated. However, the UK has been consistently clear that Israel must abide by international humanitarian law. 

Nobody wants to see this conflict last a moment longer than necessary, and I welcome that the UK Government is supporting a sustainable ceasefire. 

The UK Government's immediate priorities are to secure the release of British hostages, to show solidarity with Israel in defending itself against Hamas while complying with international humanitarian law, and to call for pauses, so that emergency aid can be distributed in Gaza, including fuel, water and medicine.

Thank you for contacting me on this matter.