In response to the escalating conflict in the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs), the UK’s Prime Minister has announced a substantial humanitarian aid package of £10 million. This financial commitment represents a significant increase, providing essential relief items and services to meet the immediate needs of civilians affected by the conflict.
Key Highlights:
- Increased Aid Package: The £10 million aid package marks a one-third increase from the UK’s existing aid contributions to the region. This funding is directed towards addressing the pressing humanitarian needs arising from the ongoing conflict.
- Relief Items and Services: The aid is intended to provide critical relief items and services, including food, water, and emergency shelter, based on the specific requirements on the ground. This support aims to alleviate the suffering of civilians affected by the conflict.
- UK’s Stance on the Conflict: The Prime Minister, in his statement to the House of Commons, reiterated the UK’s unequivocal condemnation of Hamas’ actions in both Israel and Gaza. Additionally, the UK expressed support for Israel’s right to self-defense in accordance with international law.
- Worsening Humanitarian Situation: The aid commitment comes in response to the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza. This includes shortages of essential goods and widespread displacement due to the ongoing conflict.
- Collaboration with Trusted Partners: Trusted partners, including key United Nations agencies, will be involved in delivering essential aid items and services to the affected population. The UK is exploring options to move humanitarian supplies closer to the region, ensuring efficient distribution.
Quotes from UK Officials:
- Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stated, “I’m proud that we are a longstanding and significant provider of humanitarian aid to the Palestinian people. And I can announce today that we are increasing our aid by a third, with an additional £10 million of support. An acute humanitarian crisis is unfolding, to which we must respond. We must support the Palestinian people – because they’re victims of Hamas too.”
- Foreign Secretary James Cleverly emphasized, “We are committed to supporting the Palestinian people – they are victims of Hamas too. This funding will provide vital, lifesaving support to Palestinian civilians who are caught up in this conflict and are in desperate need of help.”
Humanitarian Crisis and Impact:
The United Nations estimates that over one million Palestinians have been displaced due to the conflict. Even before the recent escalation, a significant percentage of the Gaza population required humanitarian assistance, with urgent needs in food and health services.
The UK’s commitment to addressing the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza is a testament to its longstanding support for the Palestinian people. This aid package demonstrates a commitment to providing critical relief to those affected by the conflict while also standing in solidarity with Israel in its fight against the terrorist group Hamas.
Efforts for Humanitarian Access:
The UK is actively engaged with Israel, Egypt, and other international partners to facilitate the opening of the Rafah crossing, allowing urgent humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. It is essential to ensure that aid reaches those in need promptly and efficiently.
Rigorous Oversight:
All UK aid funding directed to the OPTs undergoes rigorous oversight to ensure it does not reach Hamas, reinforcing the commitment to support civilians and not the militant organization responsible for the conflict. The UK remains committed to addressing the changing humanitarian needs on the ground as the situation evolves.
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Source: GOV.UK
