Rosalind Evans
In a pivotal moment for international diplomacy, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy met with his Israeli counterpart, Israel Katz, in Jerusalem to push for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. This visit, including French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne, marked the first joint UK-France diplomatic mission to the region in over a decade. The visit aimed to alleviate the escalating violence between Israel and Gaza, with a strong focus on halting the retaliatory cycle.
Pressing for Ceasefire in Gaza
During the meeting, Lammy emphasized the urgency of ending the violence in the region. “There is no time for delays or excuses from all parties on a ceasefire deal,” he urged all sides to prioritize peace over conflict. The visit to Jerusalem was part of a broader mission that included talks in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Both ministers expressed their hopes to mediate a solution alongside ongoing efforts from other international actors.
A Call to End the Violence
Lammy was particularly vocal about the need for decisive action, saying that the visit was a “vital opportunity to end the current destructive cycle of retaliatory violence.” The foreign secretary stressed the importance of getting all parties to engage seriously in negotiations. The talks were centered on implementing a three-phase plan, which is being discussed with mediating parties to facilitate peace in the region.
The Three-Phase Plan for Peace
The proposed three-phase plan includes the release of hostages taken by Hamas during the 7 October attack, an agreement for a lasting ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and the release of Palestinians imprisoned by Israel. Lammy and Sejourne’s joint visit underscored the European diplomatic commitment to achieving a peaceful resolution. Israel Katz and Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer also participated in the discussions to find a feasible solution to prevent further bloodshed.
A Vital Step Towards Peace
The meeting in Jerusalem represents a crucial moment in the efforts to broker peace in the region. Lammy’s call for a ceasefire and the support from France and other international partners could pave the way for meaningful progress. As the foreign secretary said, “This is a chance we cannot afford to miss.”
