Britain’s Foreign Secretary David Cameron has called for a “sustainable ceasefire” between Israel and Hamas to allow urgently needed aid into Gaza. Cameron made this statement during a news conference in Cairo, where he was visiting the region. The foreign secretary emphasized the need for the conflict to end as soon as possible.
Discussion on Ceasefire Efforts and Aid Access
Cameron was joined by his Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shoukry, and the two ministers discussed various issues, including the recent attacks by Yemen’s Houthi militia on shipping in the Red Sea. Shoukry highlighted the permanent responsibility of countries bordering the Red Sea to secure the waterway, emphasizing Egypt’s cooperation with its partners to ensure freedom of navigation in the area. Several countries, including the UK, are participating in a US-led naval task force to protect shipping in the region.
The talks between the two ministers primarily focused on ceasefire efforts, aid access to the Gaza Strip, a halt to Israeli attacks and forced displacement, and the two-state solution. The aim was to address the humanitarian crisis facing Gaza and ensure that aid reaches the enclave. Shoukry expressed concern over the unacceptable conditions in Gaza, emphasizing that they must be dealt with according to international law.
Support for Humanitarian Aid and Two-State Solution
The discussions also touched upon a draft resolution presented by Arab and Islamic groups to the UN Security Council regarding humanitarian aid. Cameron responded to a question about alleged “double standards” by Western countries in dealing with the Palestinian issue. He stated that the UK was contributing to a UN resolution that would result in aid being sent to Gaza. Cameron emphasized that Britain has consistently urged the Israeli government to address the situation in Gaza.
Cameron rejected the idea of double standards and highlighted the importance of condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine while also addressing the tragedy in Gaza. He stressed that Israel must abide by international laws and work towards reducing the number of victims. The foreign secretary expressed the UK’s focus on sending aid to Gaza and securing the release of all hostages, particularly British hostages.
Cameron reiterated the UK’s support for the two-state solution and emphasized that Israel should not occupy Gaza or displace its citizens. He praised the efforts of the Egyptians in addressing the situation and emphasized the need for Israel to comply with international laws.
Conclusion
Foreign Secretary David Cameron’s visit to Cairo highlighted the urgent need for a sustainable ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The discussions with Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry focused on aid access to Gaza, ending Israeli attacks and forced displacement, and promoting the two-state solution. Cameron emphasized the need for international support in sending aid to Gaza and securing the release of all hostages. He also rejected the notion of double standards and called for Israel to abide by international laws. The visit underscored the UK’s commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and supporting a peaceful resolution to the conflict.