The Green party Greens repeated their call for UK to suspend all arms exports to Israel after more than 400 Palestinians were reported to have been killed after Israel resumed their airstrikes last Tuesday.
Ellie Chowns, MP for North Herefordshire and Green Party Foreign Affairs spokesperson, said:
“As Israel returns to its bombardment of Gaza, hundreds more lives have been lost. Families, children, entire communities – gone in an instant. This is horrific. Each of these lives mattered. Each of these deaths was preventable.
“The UK cannot remain complicit while bombs rain down on civilians. The government must act now: we must use all diplomatic means necessary to secure an immediate ceasefire and suspend all arms exports to the Israeli military including components of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, which evidence suggests have been used in ways that violate international law and exacerbate the humanitarian crisis. There can be no justification for continuing to supply arms while international law is being violated and humanitarian catastrophe unfolds.
“The people of Gaza are not only facing bombardment – they are also being starved. The blockade is preventing essential food, water, and medical aid from reaching those in desperate need. The UK government must demand the full and immediate flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza and apply real diplomatic pressure to make that happen.
“We also repeat our call for the release of the hostages still held in Gaza. The families of those hostages deserve to see their loved ones return home.
“For too long, the UK has failed to take the necessary steps towards justice and peace. We must formally recognise the State of Palestine – a vital step towards a future based on equality, dignity, and the rule of law.
“The cycle of violence will not end without justice. There must be accountability for war crimes, an end to the occupation, and a real commitment to peace. The UK government must make a stronger stand now, before more lives are lost.”
The UK Government had previously suspended 30 arms export licences to Israel for use in military operations in Gaza, following a review of Israel’s compliance with international humanitarian law. Pat McFadden, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, told Times Radio: “We don’t impose an arms embargo. We have arms trade with Israel, and you know, that’s not going to result in an embargo.
He added that the British government “will always stick up for Israel’s right to defend itself”, but does not believe that “the cutting off of power and essential supplies to a whole population is justified”.
Sources Green Party Evening Standard
