Riyadh – British Foreign Secretary David Cameron expressed deep concern on Friday over the high casualty figures resulting from Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza. In a meeting with Israeli leaders, Cameron emphasized the need for respect of international humanitarian law and called for a reduction in civilian casualties. He urged Israel to take necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of the Palestinian people.
During his visit to the region, Cameron condemned the actions of Israeli settlers in the West Bank, stating that targeting and killing Palestinian civilians is completely unacceptable. He stressed the importance of holding those responsible accountable for their actions and called for the arrest, prosecution, and imprisonment of individuals involved in such crimes.
Cameron underscored the interdependence of Palestinian and Israeli security, stating that long-term safety and stability for Israel can only be achieved if the Palestinian people are afforded the same. He called on Israel to act in a manner that upholds its long-term security interests, which necessitates the establishment of peace, stability, and security for Palestinians in the region.
The recent escalation of violence has led to a significant loss of life and heightened tensions. Palestinian health authorities reported that over 14,000 Gazans, mostly civilians, have been killed since the conflict began. In the West Bank, where more than 3 million Palestinians reside alongside 700,000 Jewish settlers, 229 people have been killed by the Israeli army since the attack on Gaza by Hamas on October 7. The violence has also resulted in the hostage-taking of 240 individuals.
Israel’s settlement expansion in the West Bank was highlighted as a major obstacle to peace and security in the region. Cameron urged Israel to halt the expansion and take steps to facilitate the delivery of aid to Gaza. He emphasized the significance of finding a long-term, durable solution that addresses the security concerns of both Israelis and Palestinians.
Following his discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog, an agreement was reached between the warring sides. The agreement, which went into effect on Friday, includes a temporary pause in fighting to facilitate hostage exchanges and the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Thirteen Israelis, along with individuals of other nationalities, were released, while 39 Palestinian women and children were freed from Israeli jails.
On Friday, the Rafah crossing witnessed the entry of nearly 200 trucks carrying essential humanitarian supplies, including water and medical aid. This marked the largest shipment of aid since the start of the current hostilities.
As the conflict continues to unfold, international pressure mounts for a lasting ceasefire to prevent further civilian casualties. The British Foreign Secretary’s visit aimed to engage in a continuous dialogue with Israeli leaders, emphasizing the importance of adherence to humanitarian law and the protection of civilian lives in the region.
