Government Response

The Government responded to this petition on Friday 10th November 2023

The UK continues to urge all sides to adhere to international humanitarian law, and to call for immediate, unimpeded and safe humanitarian access for lifesaving aid to reach civilians.

Israel has suffered the worst terror attack in its history, and Palestinian civilians in Gaza are experiencing a devastating humanitarian crisis. We need a collective effort to get aid into Gaza as fast as possible - including food, water, fuel and medical supplies - by as many routes as possible. We have pressed Israel to ensure its campaign is targeted against Hamas leaders and military infrastructure; to allow aid to enter Gaza; to end settler violence; and to work with the UN and ICRC to improve the humanitarian situation.

The UK has contributed another £30m of aid for Gaza, prepositioning supplies in Egypt. Three UK flights carrying a total of 51 tonnes of aid have landed in Egypt (on 25 October, 2 November and 3 November). The shipments have included lifesaving items such as wound care packs, water filters and solar powered lights as well as vital equipment including forklift trucks, belt conveyors and lighting towers, specifically requested by UK partners in the region to manage and deliver the aid more effectively. This is in addition to the 21 tonnes of essential supplies, such as wound care packs, water filters and solar powered lights delivered on 25 October.

But this is still not enough to meet the immediate needs of the population. Delivering a humanitarian pause is an urgent priority given the worsening situation on the ground. We will support humanitarian pauses where they help aid to enter and we are urgently exploring all diplomatic options and all practical routes, working with the UN and all other partners. We are also urging Israel to open other border crossings, such as Kerem Shalom, to enable more humanitarian aid to reach civilians in need.

We are aware of Israel’s concerns about the stockpiling of fuel by Hamas terrorists. But that doesn’t negate the need for fuel to urgently get to those who do need it in Gaza – including at hospitals. We are working with the UN to ensure that safeguards and robust processes are in place to ensure fuel is only used for humanitarian and civilian purposes.

Hamas does not speak for or act in the interests of the Palestinian people; Palestinian civilians should not suffer the consequences of Hamas’ inhumanity and brutality. It is vital that all parties ensure their actions are proportionate, necessary and minimise harm to civilians.

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

Parliamentary Debate

This petition was debated in Parliament on Monday 11th December 2023

See Debate Details