The worsening crisis in Gaza is nothing short of a humanitarian disaster. Thousands of innocent civilians have already been killed, including thousands of children.
Daily news reels are heartbreaking and it just seems to get worse every day. It is six weeks since Hamas' attrocities and it is increasingly clear that Israel's military solution to eliminate Hamas is not possible. Nor is it tenable for Israel to reoccupy Gaza.
The only answer is via an immediate bilateral ceasefire.
Only a sustained political and diplomatic solution will resolve this conflict and deliver a lasting peace.
Cllr Kelly tabled a motion on the conflict last November. Since moving this motion the Liberal Democrats have strengthened our position to calling for an immediate and permanent bilateral ceasefire, the release of the hostages, aid to be delivered to the people of gaza and work towards a two states solution and Palestine recognition.
Proposed by Cllr Andy Kelly
Seconded by Cllr Dave Bamford
This Council condemns the awful terrorist attacks carried out by Hamas in Israel on 7th October.
This Council is horrified by the scenes of violence in the weeks and days since, in particular the devastating humanitarian situation in Gaza where over 10,000 Palestinians have already been killed and over 200 Israelis are still being held hostage.
Council supports Israel’s right to protect its citizens, in line with international law, which means targeting terrorists, not civilians, and ensuring that innocent Palestinians do not pay the price for Hamas’ actions.
Council expresses its concern at the UK Government’s failure to attempt to ensure that the Israeli government and its military adhere to the requirements of international law and the UK Government’s refusal to publish legal advice it has received in relation to the conflict.
Council affirms that Hamas remaining in Gaza is not tenable, and that a military solution alone will not achieve this aim.
Council believes:
The Liberal Democrats may be the only UK wide party with representation in Parliament standing in this by-election calling for an immediate pernanent bilateral ceasefire, release of the hostages, getting aid to the people of Gaza, and working towards a two states and Palestine recognition. If you would like to help us campaign for this then please sign up below.
I want to help campaign for a bilateral ceasefire, release of the hostages, immediate aid to the people of Gaza, and a two state solution.