Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper warned that Gaza must not be left in a state of limbo between peace and war, emphasizing the need for continued progress on a peace plan. She urged Israel and Hamas to maintain a ceasefire, which has been tested by recent clashes and Israeli air strikes that reportedly killed over 100 people in Gaza. Tensions have escalated over accusations that Hamas fired on Israeli soldiers and the return of hostage bodies.
Speaking at the Manama Dialogue security summit in Bahrain, Cooper stressed that the international community cannot "walk away" and must urgently advance the next phase of a peace plan. She called for the lifting of restrictions on humanitarian aid, including opening all border crossings to allow essential supplies to reach Gaza, where tens of thousands have died and devastation is widespread. The UK has pledged £4 million to clear landmines, which are a significant obstacle to aid delivery and reconstruction efforts.
Cooper also formally invited Palestine to establish diplomatic relations with the UK, following the UK's decision to recognize a Palestinian state. However, she acknowledged the difficulties ahead, including Hamas disarmament, establishing a new Palestinian government, and ensuring long-term security. She highlighted the immense devastation expected in Gaza and stressed the need for journalists to be allowed access to report on the situation, underscoring that reconstruction and a future fo... download the app to read more
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