British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak met with Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad on the sidelines of COP28 in Dubai. The meeting focused on the recent humanitarian pause in Gaza and the ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages and provide humanitarian assistance to those in need. Sunak expressed his gratitude to Qatar for its important role in facilitating the pause, which resulted in the release of dozens of hostages and the passage of further aid.
The leaders expressed their deep regret over the collapse of the pause and emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to secure the release of all hostages and ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches those in need in Gaza. Sunak reiterated the long-term goal of working towards a two-state solution that guarantees the security and prosperity of both Israelis and Palestinians. He also made it clear that Hamas, in his view, cannot be a partner for peace and has no future in Gaza.
In addition to meeting with Sheikh Tamim, Sunak also met with Jordan’s King Abdullah II. During their meeting, Sunak reassured King Abdullah that the UK continues to press Israel on the need to adhere to international humanitarian law and contain settler violence in the West Bank. He acknowledged Jordan’s vital role in addressing the crisis in Gaza and its generous support in providing humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians, including military field hospitals.
Sunak emphasized the UK’s commitment to working towards a lasting resolution to the conflict that delivers dignity, peace, and security for both Israelis and Palestinians. The leaders also highlighted the importance of close British-Jordanian cooperation in various areas, including trade, defense, and clean technology.
Another important meeting took place between Sunak and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. Sunak reiterated the UK’s support for the humanitarian response in Gaza and expressed gratitude for Egypt’s efforts to deliver much-needed aid and secure the release of hostages. The UK has sent planeloads of aid, including warehouse facilities and forklift trucks, to Egypt to preposition on the border with Gaza. Sunak assured El-Sisi that the UK stands ready to provide further support and emphasized the importance of aid reaching people across the territory without forcible displacement.
Sunak also had a discussion with Israel’s President Isaac Herzog regarding the conflict and the end of the humanitarian pause in Gaza. He emphasized the need to avoid civilian casualties and increase the flow of aid to Gaza. Sunak stressed the importance of taking all possible measures to reduce escalation and bring about a ceasefire.
On a separate note, King Charles III, who is also attending COP28, met with Sheikh Tamim to discuss the friendship and cooperation between the two countries and peoples. They exchanged views on the summit’s agenda and other joint interests.
UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron held talks with Qatari counterpart Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim to discuss the latest developments in Gaza and the Occupied Territories. The focus was on finding ways to reduce escalation and bring about a ceasefire. Sheikh Mohammed emphasized Qatar’s commitment, along with its mediation partners, to continuing efforts to return to calm. He condemned all forms of targeting civilians and stressed the necessity of opening humanitarian corridors to ensure relief and aid reach Palestinians affected by the bombardment.
In conclusion, these meetings between British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and various leaders from Qatar, Jordan, Egypt, and Israel highlight the ongoing efforts to address the crisis in Gaza and secure the release of hostages. The leaders expressed their commitment to finding a lasting resolution to the conflict that guarantees peace, security, and dignity for both Israelis and Palestinians. The UK continues to provide support and assistance in delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, while also pressing for adherence to international humanitarian law and the containment of violence in the West Bank.