David Lammy Makes Bold Move in Middle East on First Foreign Tour
Foreign Secretary David Lammy has landed in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, kicking off his first Middle East visit since taking office. His mission? Push for peace and security in a conflict-ridden region teetering on the brink.
Urgent Calls for Ceasefire and Hostage Release
Lammy is demanding an immediate ceasefire and the release of all hostages held by Hamas. He’s also pressing for a surge in humanitarian aid into Gaza, which is reeling from violence and suffering a humanitarian crisis.
In meetings with key players — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas — Lammy will push for a “credible and irreversible” plan towards a two-state solution, a peace formula long sought to end decades of strife.
£5.5 Million Boost for Life-Saving Aid
The UK is ramping up its aid with a fresh £5.5 million injection to UK-Med, a frontline medical charity. Their teams, including NHS professionals, deliver critical care in Gaza’s most battered hospitals like Nasser Hospital. This cash will help medics treat thousands suffering from trauma, infections, and respiratory illnesses amid the chaos.
Lammy’s Take: End the Bloodshed Now
David Lammy, Foreign Secretary: “The death and destruction in Gaza is intolerable. This war must end now, with an immediate ceasefire by both sides. Hostages held by Hamas must be freed immediately, and aid must flow into Gaza without restrictions.”
“I’m meeting with leaders to push the UK’s full commitment to secure a ceasefire, creating the space for a safe Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state.”
Backing Palestinian reforms and condemning illegal settlements
While in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Lammy will commend the Palestinian Authority’s reform efforts and renew the UK’s £10 million aid package, supporting crucial services and salaries for 8,200 health workers.
He’ll press President Abbas and Prime Minister Mustafa on the UK’s support for recognising a Palestinian state as a right. The Foreign Secretary will also condemn illegal West Bank settlements, which he says derail peace talks.
More aid ready to reach Gaza amid mounting crisis
Lammy highlights the urgency as over 680 tonnes of UK aid, including medicines, shelters, and hygiene kits, stand ready to enter Gaza. The message is clear: the flow of humanitarian assistance must be ramped up fast to ease suffering.
Lammy’s mission: Long-term peace for Israel and Palestine
This high-stakes visit underscores Britain’s commitment to broker a lasting peace deal that guarantees security and sovereignty for both Israelis and Palestinians — a bold pledge in one of the world’s toughest diplomatic challenges.
