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- FCDO statement quoted Lammy as urging UK partners in Middle East to “choose peace”
LONDON: British foreign minister David Lammy is set to travel to Israel in an attempt to prevent an all-out war in the Middle East, Sky News reported on Thursday, citing a diplomatic source.
Also on Thursday, a Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office statement quoted Lammy as urging UK’s partners in the Middle East to “choose peace” amid rising tensions in the region.
Commenting on the restart of negotiations on a ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza, Lammy said: “We are at a crucial moment for global stability. The coming hours and days could define the future of the Middle East, that is why today, and every day, we are urging for our partners across the region to choose peace.
“As the UK made clear at the UN Security Council this week, the situation in Gaza is devastating. The strike on the Al-Tabeen school demonstrated that Palestinians in Gaza have nowhere safe to turn.
“These talks are an opportunity to secure an immediate ceasefire that protects civilians in Gaza, secures the release of hostages still cruelly held by Hamas and restores stability at a dangerous moment for the region,” he added.
Lammy said Britain would continue to push for a ceasefire and would work with allies to achieve one, as he pointed to discussions between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and leaders in the US, France and Germany, as well as the presidents of Iran and Egypt.
“It’s clear from these conversations that a ceasefire would not only protect civilians in Gaza, but also pave the way for wider de-escalation and bring much-needed stability for the Middle East,” he said.
“It is in the interests of both Israelis and Palestinians for a deal to be agreed, urgently. I urge all parties to engage in the negotiations in good faith and show the flexibility needed to reach an agreement.
“I thank Qatar, Egypt, the US and all international partners for their efforts in co-ordinating this vital moment.”