Israel and Gaza

Jim McMahon Excerpts
Tuesday 19th December 2023

(1 year ago)

Commons Chamber
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Andrew Mitchell Portrait Mr Mitchell
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The hon. Lady’s point underlines the vital importance of moving to a political track as soon as it is possible to do so.

Jim McMahon Portrait Jim McMahon (Oldham West and Royton) (Lab/Co-op)
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Britain must maintain that international law is followed on the international stage, specifically the protection of civilians, including innocent children. Does the Minister agree that although the humanitarian pause was an important step—testing the negotiation and mediation of intermediaries, and, of course, the release of hostages—only a lasting ceasefire will bring about the conditions for peace? Does he also agree—we have heard it here in the Chamber today—that the Israeli Government have to accept that for them to have statehood and live in peace, they must want the same for their neighbour too?

Andrew Mitchell Portrait Mr Mitchell
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That is why the Government are working towards a sustainable ceasefire. In the meantime, we are anxious to secure the necessary pauses so that aid can get into Gaza as speedily as possible.