UK’s New PM Keir Starmer Calls for Urgent Gaza Ceasefire and Two-State Solution

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Jakarta, Kowantaranews.com -In a significant diplomatic move, the United Kingdom’s newly elected Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, has emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza and the establishment of a two-state solution. This development comes amid escalating violence that has resulted in the loss of over 38,000 Palestinian lives, predominantly women and children, and left more than 87,000 injured.

In a series of high-stakes phone calls with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian leaders, Starmer articulated the necessity for an immediate cessation of hostilities. He stressed the importance of returning hostages and significantly increasing the flow of humanitarian aid to civilians trapped in the conflict-ridden region. This marked a notable shift from his previous stance as opposition leader, where he faced criticism for aligning too closely with former Conservative Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s policies and not calling for a ceasefire sooner.

Starmer’s engagement with Netanyahu underlined the UK’s commitment to continuing its “vital cooperation to deter malign threats” with Israel. However, he was forthright about the UK’s position on the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. According to a statement from the new British government, Starmer conveyed that ensuring the long-term conditions for a viable two-state solution is imperative. This includes making sure that the Palestinian Authority has the financial resources necessary to operate effectively.

The prime minister’s call for a ceasefire and a comprehensive peace process reflects a departure from his earlier stance. As opposition leader, Starmer was accused of not advocating for a ceasefire, a position that aligned him with Rishi Sunak. Intense public pressure and widespread criticism, especially after opposing a ceasefire resolution in the UK Parliament, eventually led him to call for a ceasefire in February. His stance at the time drew ire from various quarters, including accusations of sidelining pro-Palestinian voices within the Labour Party.

One of the most contentious points during Starmer’s time as opposition leader was his comment on an LBC podcast last October. He stated that Israel “has the right” to cut water and electricity supplies to Gaza. This remark was met with widespread condemnation, with critics arguing that it justified collective punishment against civilians. A Labour Party spokesperson later clarified that Starmer’s comment was in response to a question about Israel’s right to defend itself, rather than an endorsement of the blockade.

Starmer’s relationship with pro-Palestinian members of the Labour Party has been fraught. He faced backlash for allegedly denying tickets to several pro-Palestinian members, including former party leader Jeremy Corbyn. Despite this, at least five pro-Palestinian candidates, including Corbyn, won seats in the recent elections as independents, signaling strong support for the Palestinian cause among segments of the British electorate.

The current conflict, which began with attacks by Palestinian groups on Israel on October 7, has seen a devastating military response from Israel. The ensuing violence has not only resulted in a staggering death toll but also caused extensive damage to Gaza’s infrastructure, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The UN and various human rights organizations have repeatedly called for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian access to the affected areas, echoing Starmer’s recent appeals.

In his communications with Netanyahu, Starmer highlighted the importance of not only addressing the immediate violence but also creating sustainable conditions for peace. This includes supporting the Palestinian Authority and ensuring that it has the means to govern effectively. The British government’s statement underscored the need for international cooperation to achieve a lasting resolution to the conflict, one that ensures security and prosperity for both Israelis and Palestinians.

Despite the gravity of the situation and the urgent calls for a ceasefire, the Israeli government has shown no inclination to halt its military operations. Netanyahu’s office did not release a statement following the phone call with Starmer, indicating a potential divergence in their approaches to resolving the conflict.

Starmer’s advocacy for a ceasefire and a two-state solution aligns with a broader international consensus seeking to address the root causes of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The two-state solution, which envisions an independent State of Palestine alongside the State of Israel, has long been considered a viable pathway to peace. However, achieving this goal has been fraught with challenges, including political divisions, settlement expansions, and recurring cycles of violence.

The new prime minister’s proactive stance on the issue is likely to influence the UK’s foreign policy in the Middle East. His emphasis on humanitarian aid and political solutions reflects a commitment to a more balanced approach in addressing the complex dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

As the situation in Gaza continues to evolve, the international community is watching closely. Starmer’s call for a ceasefire and his efforts to promote a two-state solution may contribute to renewed diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the violence and fostering long-term peace in the region.

In the coming weeks and months, the effectiveness of Starmer’s diplomatic engagements will be tested. The UK’s role in the international community, particularly in mediating conflicts and advocating for human rights, will be scrutinized as it navigates its relationship with both Israeli and Palestinian authorities.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains a pressing concern. With thousands injured and displaced, the need for immediate relief efforts cannot be overstated. Starmer’s insistence on increasing humanitarian aid highlights the urgency of addressing the basic needs of civilians caught in the crossfire.

As Prime Minister Keir Starmer continues to navigate the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, his actions and policies will be critical in shaping the UK’s legacy in the pursuit of peace and justice in the Middle East. The path to a ceasefire and a two-state solution is fraught with challenges, but with concerted effort and international cooperation, there is hope for a more peaceful and stable future for both Israelis and Palestinians. *Mukroni

Source Al Jazeera

Photo arabnews.com