Reflecting on the recent ceasefire in Gaza, Gareth Thomas, Harrow West MP, has said: “The recent ceasefire in Gaza brings a much-needed glimmer of hope. I am committed to sustaining momentum on the ceasefire, despite its fragility”.
“Gaza lies in ruins, and it is crucial we move through the phases of the current ceasefire to reach the reconstruction stage. I oppose moving Palestinians to neighbouring Arab states against their will and any attempt that reduces the territory of Gaza. Palestinians must be able to return to and rebuild their homes and their lives, a right guaranteed under international law” he said.
He remains concerned and reiterates that “Israel must ensure civilian protection. It must adhere to international law and clamp down on the actions of those who seek to inflame tensions”.
In his email to us, he has said: “I support the decision last year to suspend relevant export licences to Israel. Following a rigorous process in line with the UK’s legal obligations, the Government concluded there is a clear risk that military exports to Israel, where used for military operations in Gaza, might be used in serious violations of international humanitarian law”.
Mr Thomas believes Israel must end its presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including illegal settlements in the West Bank, as quickly as possible.
“In October, the Government announced new sanctions targeting three illegal settler outposts and four organisations that have supported and sponsored violence against communities in the West Bank” he informs.
“I am crystal clear this conflict can only be resolved through a two-state solution and I will continue to advocate for that at every opportunity” Mr Thomas concluded.
“Gaza lies in ruins, and it is crucial we move through the phases of the current ceasefire to reach the reconstruction stage. I oppose moving Palestinians to neighbouring Arab states against their will and any attempt that reduces the territory of Gaza. Palestinians must be able to return to and rebuild their homes and their lives, a right guaranteed under international law” he said.
He remains concerned and reiterates that “Israel must ensure civilian protection. It must adhere to international law and clamp down on the actions of those who seek to inflame tensions”.
In his email to us, he has said: “I support the decision last year to suspend relevant export licences to Israel. Following a rigorous process in line with the UK’s legal obligations, the Government concluded there is a clear risk that military exports to Israel, where used for military operations in Gaza, might be used in serious violations of international humanitarian law”.
Mr Thomas believes Israel must end its presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including illegal settlements in the West Bank, as quickly as possible.
“In October, the Government announced new sanctions targeting three illegal settler outposts and four organisations that have supported and sponsored violence against communities in the West Bank” he informs.
“I am crystal clear this conflict can only be resolved through a two-state solution and I will continue to advocate for that at every opportunity” Mr Thomas concluded.
Harrow Monitoring Group 