Incoming government must recognise Palestine and redouble efforts for peace

Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael, has backed calls for the incoming Labour government to uphold international law and support efforts towards a lasting peace in Israel and Palestine, including the recognition of a Palestinian state. Signing Liberal Democrat foreign affairs spokesperson Layla Moran’s parliamentary motion, Mr Carmichael warned that with the election past, now was the time to renew efforts for a ceasefire in Gaza, while welcoming the government’s announcement today of the restoration of funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, the agency which supports aid for Palestinians.

Mr Carmichael said:

“Our country may have been distracted with an election in recent weeks but the suffering in Gaza has continued without any pause. Now we must see renewed diplomatic efforts to see the hostages released, the fighting to end and for humanitarian aid to reach those who desperately need it.

“If we believe in the international rule of law then we should not be afraid to stand up for it. That is true with our friends just as much as with our enemies, whether it means sanctioning those involved in human rights abuses or indeed suspending arms sales.

“The new government must take a stronger line on international law than the previous government did. I am glad that the government has today restored funding to UNRWA after a lengthy delay by its predecessor, which will play a vital role in supporting those in the most danger. Even so we must recommit ourselves to the two-state solution and the recognition of an independent Palestinian state.

“Now is the time to push for a durable ceasefire and a lasting peace for the sake of all suffering in this conflict.”