LONDON: As Israel continued relentless and brutal bombardments in the Gaza Strip, UK Foreign Minister David Cameron and German counterpart Annalena Baerbock have emphasized the “urgent need” for a “sustainable ceasefire” in Gaza.
In a joint article penned for Britain’s Sunday Times, the ministers expressed concern over the loss of Palestinian civilian lives during Israeli bombardments and urged Israel to bring its military operation to a swift yet sustainable end.
The article stated, “Too many Palestinian civilians have been killed, and we must do all we can to pave the way to a sustainable ceasefire, leading to a sustainable peace. The sooner it comes, the better—the need is urgent.” However, the ministers indicated that they do not believe an immediate and general ceasefire, without a plan for long-term sustainability, is the optimal way forward.
Despite the overwhelming demand for a ceasefire in Gaza at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday night, the UK chose to abstain from the vote. The move raised questions about the UK’s stance on the ongoing conflict.
Israel is facing mounting pressure from its allies, with the United States criticizing its response to the October 7 attacks as “indiscriminate.” Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden, in response to inquiries about the UK government’s position, urged Israel to exercise restraint.
Dowden acknowledged the challenges Israel faces, stating, “If you are going after an enemy that literally hides underneath hospitals, hides amongst the civilian population, you are going to sustain high levels of civilian casualties.”
Since the launch of Israel’s bombardment campaign on October 7, more than 19,000 Palestinian people, mostly women and children, have been killed. The international community continues to call for a comprehensive and sustainable resolution to the conflict.
