January 2026
Thank you to everyone who has contacted me about the situation in Gaza. I share your deep concerns about the humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for peace.
Since becoming an MP, I have consistently spoken up about the devastating situation in Gaza, the need to uphold international humanitarian law, and the urgency of action. This includes my work on the International Development Committee, contributions in Parliament, and meetings with ministers. I also signed a public letter calling for recognition of the Palestinian State, which the Government implemented in September.
In November, I spoke in a debate on humanitarian obligations in Gaza, focusing in particular on women and girls. You can read the debate here: Gaza: Humanitarian Obligations – Westminster Hall Debate, 24th Nov 2025
I welcome the ceasefire deal, which offers relief for hostages, their families and civilians in Gaza. But there is still a long way to go, and all parties must deliver what has been promised.
The humanitarian situation remains catastrophic. As highlighted in the recent joint statement from the UK and international partners, civilians are facing appalling winter conditions, with 1.3 million people still needing shelter, more than half of health facilities only partially functioning, and a collapse in sanitation infrastructure leaving 740,000 people exposed to toxic flooding. 1.6 million people continue to face acute food insecurity. Aid levels have increased since the ceasefire, but access remains severely constrained.
I support the joint call for Israel to urgently allow international NGOs to operate predictably in Gaza. Many are at risk of deregistration due to new restrictive requirements, which could force them to shut down within 60 days—potentially closing a third of remaining health facilities. Aid must be able to reach Gaza safely and at scale, including food, clean water, fuel, medical supplies, and shelter. The statement also urges the swift return of the remains of the final deceased hostage and for Hamas to disarm and renounce violence in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2803.
I also remain clear that Israeli settlements are illegal under international law. I do not support actions that forcibly displace Palestinians or that reduce Palestinian territory. Settler violence is unacceptable and has caused deaths and displacement. Ministers continue to press Israel to halt settlement expansion and clamp down on violence; the UK has joined UN statements condemning recent spikes in settler attacks and calling for humanitarian access and respect for international law.
The Government has also announced matched funding of up to £3 million for the Disasters Emergency Committee’s appeal, bringing UK support for urgent winter assistance in Gaza to over £55 million.
As we move forward, accountability and transparency are essential. I support full humanitarian and media access to Gaza and proper accountability for violations of international law.
I remain committed to a two‑state solution and a just and lasting peace for Palestinians, Israelis, and the wider region.