🤞 Middle East
Commons Chamber
A potential ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has been announced, raising hopes for peace after months of devastating conflict that started with Hamas’s attack on October 7, 2023. The deal, facilitated by significant negotiations, is awaiting final approval but could start halting the violence from midday Israel time on January 19. It outlines a three-phase plan for stopping the fighting, releasing hostages, aid delivery into Gaza, and a pathway to a lasting peace. Both sides are urged to seize this opportunity for not just a temporary ceasefire but to work towards a durable solution and the rebuilding of Gaza.
Summary
Here’s a summary of the parliamentary session:
- Announcement of a Ceasefire Deal:
- Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced a deal between Israel and Hamas for a ceasefire, expected to come into effect from midday Israel time on Sunday. The deal involves three phases:
- Phase 1: Ceasefire for six weeks, release of hostages (children, women, those over 50, and wounded), aid inflow, and redeployment of Israeli forces.
- Phase 2: Release of male hostages under 50, complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and implementation of a permanent ceasefire.
- Phase 3: Return of deceased hostages’ remains and lifting of economic restrictions on Gaza.
- Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced a deal between Israel and Hamas for a ceasefire, expected to come into effect from midday Israel time on Sunday. The deal involves three phases:
- Humanitarian Crisis and Loss:
- Acknowledgement of the ongoing suffering in Gaza, with over 46,000 killed, widespread destruction, and the displacement of nearly 2 million people.
- Mention of individuals killed in conflict, including journalists and British aid workers.
- Recognition and Mourning:
- The House observed a moment of remembrance for victims, including hostages killed in captivity and the aid workers from World Central Kitchen.
- Role of Mediator Countries:
- Appreciation for efforts by Qatar, Egypt, the USA, and the incoming Trump administration in brokering the ceasefire.
- UK’s Role and Humanitarian Efforts:
- The UK has been active in diplomatic efforts, humanitarian aid, with funding for UNRWA, and medical support to Gaza.
- Future Governance and Peace:
- Discussion on the need for Palestinian governance reform and the UK’s commitment to support economic recovery and reconstruction.
- Emphasis on pursuing a two-state solution as the path to lasting peace.
- Legal and Security Concerns:
- Concerns raised about international law compliance, illegal settlements, and the potential for Hamas to use aid for terrorism.
- Accountability for Crimes:
- Issues regarding accountability for breaches of international law, including the plight of journalists and the ICC’s potential legal actions against Israeli leaders.
- Reactions and Concerns:
- Mixed reactions with cautious optimism for peace but concerns about the fragility of the deal, potential setbacks, and the need for long-term stability in the region.
- Commitment to Hope and Justice:
- Parliamentarians expressed hope while recognizing the need for justice, accountability, and ongoing efforts towards peacebuilding and reconciliation in the Middle East.
Divisiveness
While there were variances in opinions among the members and queries raised demanding accountability and justice, the session as a whole maintained a tone of collaborative discussion with an agreement on the assessment of the significance of the issues at hand and general support for the announced efforts. The differences presented were aimed at exploring improvements rather than engaging in contentious disagreements. Thus, the level of disagreement present in the session was quite low.