Quakers call for a ‘fundamental reset’ of UK policies towards Palestine
Quakers joined 17 other UK charities outlining the key steps the new government must take in its first 100 days to address the conflict in Gaza.
In a public statement, agencies working in Palestine and Israel highlighted the unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe facing Gaza.
Bond, Christian Aid, and others welcomed the new government's manifesto commitment to upholding international humanitarian law, and to a ceasefire in Gaza, along with a rapid increase in aid and the safe release of all hostages.
But they urged “bold and decisive action" from the UK government, including an immediate halt to arms transfers to the Government of Israel.
The government should compel the Government of Israel to lift its long-term blockade of Gaza and ensure access for aid workers and aid across all areas, they said.
The statement draws attention to the rapidly deteriorating situation in the occupied West Bank where more than 500 Palestinians have been killed since last October.
The UK government should publicly recognise and denounce the de facto annexation of large parts of the occupied West Bank, which is absolutely prohibited under international law, according to the statement.
“It is imperative for the new UK Government to demonstrate international leadership to prevent atrocities and even greater mass loss of life. This requires a fundamental reset of policies pursued by the former Government," it said.