Hamas Attacks: First Anniversary

Debate between Jim Shannon and Jon Pearce

Monday 7th October 2024 Commons Chamber

[Jon Pearce]

I welcome my hon. Friend’s intervention and completely agree that Hamas is a terrorist organisation that set out that day to murder as many innocent civilians as it possibly could. Talk of statistics risks robbing the victims of their humanity and precious individuality. I want to touch on some of the incredible stories from that day.

[Jim Shannon (Strangford) (DUP)]

On that point, will the hon. Gentleman give way?

[Jon Pearce]

I will give way.

[Jim Shannon]

I commend the hon. Gentleman for bringing forward the debate; I spoke to him beforehand. I bring to his and the House’s attention a lady I met when I was in Israel the week after Easter: Amanda Damari, who spoke yesterday about her daughter Emily, who was kidnapped. She has lived that kidnapping every day. Does he agree that we salute the bravery, the courage and the determination of those families to have those hostages—their friends and family members—home to enjoy life once again?

[Jon Pearce]

I agree with the hon. Member that the courage of the families of the hostages is remarkable. So many in the House will have spoken to those families. Their strength and resolve is extraordinary and empowers all the rest of us.