December 2025
Thank you to everyone who has contacted me about the situation in Gaza. I share your deep and sincere concerns about the humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for peace, and wanted to update you on some of what I’ve been doing on this.
Since becoming a Member of Parliament last year, I have spoken up about the devastating situation in Gaza, the need to uphold international humanitarian law, and the urgency of action. This has included my work on the International Development Select Committee, in Parliament, and in meetings with ministers. I also signed a public letter, alongside many other MPs, calling for recognition of the Palestinian State which the Government did in September.
Most recently, I spoke on the 24th November in a debate on humanitarian obligations in Gaza, particularly focussed on the situation for women and girls. You can read my contribution and the full debate here. It is a pleasure to serve under…: 24 Nov 2025: Westminster Hall debates – TheyWorkForYou
I welcome the current ceasefire deal. It is a moment of relief, in particular for the hostages, their families and the civilian population of Gaza, who have all endured unimaginable suffering However, there is a long way to go till this is fully implemented. All parties must meet the commitments they have made and move swiftly to deliver what has been promised.
While aid is beginning to enter Gaza, it is still far from sufficient and not moving at the speed required. The need for water, sanitation, healthcare, and shelter remains critical and we must not lose sight of the humanitarian catastrophe that continues in Gaza. I join the UK Government in calling for Israel to permanently lift restrictions on humanitarian aid so that food, clean water, medicine, fuel, and shelter can reach those who need it most and for the opening of more crossings. The international system can deliver what is needed but that is not happening at scale. We must also see the bodies of the hostages returned to their grieving families.
I also want to be clear that I consider Israeli settlements in Palestine to be illegal under international law. I do not support plans to forcibly displace Palestinians from or reduce Palestinian territory. I am aware there is a significant increase in the number of settlements being approved and built, while settler violence has soared. Settler violence is unacceptable and has led to the death of Palestinians and the displacement of whole towns and villages. This constitutes an abuse of human rights. I know Ministers continue to make clear to their Israeli counterparts that they must clamp down on this and end settler expansion.
As we move forward, accountability and transparency are vital. That is why I support calls for media and humanitarian access to Gaza as soon as possible and for full accountability.
I am unwaveringly committed to a two-state solution: a just and lasting peace for Palestinians, Israelis and the whole region.
I will continue to keep you up updated on this important issue.
Kind regards,
Alice