Latest reply from my MP (not a Starmer groupie):

Dear....

Thank you for contacting me about the devastating events ongoing in Gaza and the West Bank. I understand and share your despair over the abhorrent loss of life that has taken place over the last 20 months.

Further to my last letter, I welcome the Government’s suspension of trade talks with Israel and the sanctioning of Israeli settlers involved in violence, as well as the Prime Minister’s joint statement with other world leaders condemning Israel’s actions and calling for a ceasefire. Given the severity of the situation, it remains my opinion that we must go further; impose sanctions on Israeli ministers, and enact a full arms embargo.

In the last month I have joined colleagues in writing to the Foreign Secretary to highlight the role of F-35s in the destruction of Gaza, urging the Foreign Secretary to halt all arms sales to Israel and ensuring we are not complicit in their action. I have recently joined colleagues in writing to the Prime Minister to urge the UK to recognise Palestine as an independent state.

The World Health Organization has said that two million people are being starved in Gaza while tonnes of food are being blocked at the border by Israel. This is intolerable. In Parliament, I asked the Foreign Secretary what is being done to ensure this situation does not continue. You can watch my question here

I will continue to advocate for a just and lasting peace in Israel and Palestine, and for the British government to use all diplomatic and political means at its disposal to help achieve it. I continue to believe that a just and lasting peace must uphold the equal rights, dignity, and security of Palestinians and Israelis. Such a peace cannot be achieved without an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the release of all hostages held by Hamas, and the release of Palestinian political prisoners held without charge or trial under Israel’s policy of administrative detention. Accountability for violations of international law must apply, and there must be a renewed commitment to diplomacy, human rights, and justice. Only through an end to the occupation, the dismantling of apartheid structures, and the recognition of our shared humanity can we build a future in which both peoples live in freedom and safety.

Thank you once again for taking the time to write to me. Please be assured that your correspondence makes an impact.

Kind regards,
Olivia Blake MP