Lincoln MP addresses UN on Gaza

Lincoln MP Hamish Falconer outlined the UK’s effort to support the recovery and reconstruction of Gaza to the United Nations this week.

His address as the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Middle East, Afghanistan and Pakistan on Monday underlined the government’s commitment to Gaza and ending the humanitarian crisis there.

“Discussions reflected a shared sense of outrage at the scale of human suffering. The humanitarian pause in fighting is essential by long overdue. This must be kept in place and lead to a lasting ceasefire that brings the war to an end, allows hostages to be freed, and ensures aid can get into Gaza without obstruction,” said Hamish in an address believed to be the first by a Lincoln MP to UN members.

He added: “The United Nations must be allowed to save lives, to reduce suffering, to preserve dignity. 

“The Foreign Secretary has announced an additional $54 million in humanitarian assistance, including $27 million for UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency). 

“We want to see meaningful steps towards a viable, independent Palestinian state alongside a safe, secure Israel. 

“Beyond the immediate humanitarian crisis, Gaza's recovery needs will be vast. Getting the right approach will be crucial to ensure a two-state solution remains possible. Many in the working group echoed our view, and that of President Abbas, that Hamas must, be removed from governance, disarmed and renounce violence. 

“We are committed to inclusive, governance in Gaza, led by Palestinians, and we will expand technical assistance to the Palestinian Authority to support recovery and reconstruction.”