Lammy Urges Immediate Cease-Fire in Gaza

August 17, 2024 TruthUSA

Lammy and Séjourné are on a joint mission following calls from leaders of the UK, France, and Germany for ‘de-escalation and regional stability.’

Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized the need for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas conflict during his visit to Israel with French counterpart Stéphane Séjourné.

Both officials met with Israeli foreign minister Israel Katz and minister of strategic affairs, Ron Dermer, as well as visited the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

Lammy, during a press conference, stressed the urgency for a resolution to the conflict that has claimed numerous lives in the region since it began with a tragic event on October 7.

He underscored the importance of reaching a deal, securing the release of hostages, providing essential aid to Gaza, and putting an end to the fighting.

Amid ongoing negotiations involving the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, Lammy expressed satisfaction with reports indicating progress in hostage talks.

Recent developments in the region, including the war between Israel and Hamas and concerns about spreading instability, are of great concern.

‘Dangerous Moment’

Describing the situation as a ‘dangerous moment’ for the Middle East, Lammy highlighted the escalating risk of the situation spiraling out of control.

He emphasized the need for peace and stability in the region to avoid further escalation and urged all regional partners to choose peace.

The UK and France are committed to securing peace for Israelis, Palestinians, and the wider region, with efforts to secure the release of hostages and increase aid to Gaza.

Séjourné supported the call for a cease-fire and the release of hostages, stressing the importance of avoiding a regional war.

Tensions have also risen in the region due to rocket exchanges between Iran-backed Hezbollah terrorists in Lebanon and Israel, along with the killing of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh.

Lammy warned that any Iranian attack would have severe consequences for the region.

Calls for De-Escalation

The visit followed a joint statement from Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz calling for ‘de-escalation and regional stability’ in the Middle East.

Efforts are underway to secure a deal between Israel and Hamas through U.S., Qatari, and Egyptian mediation, aimed at releasing hostages, establishing a cease-fire, withdrawing Israeli military from Gaza, and releasing Palestinian prisoners.

The Palestinians have reported significant casualties in the conflict, but figures are disputed by the Israeli government, citing discrepancies in civilian and combatant casualties.

PA Media and Guy Birchall contributed to this report.

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