UK foreign minister reaffirms commitment to two-state solution for Israeli-Palestinian conflict

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly reaffirmed Wednesday that his government will relentlessly pursue the UK’s enduring position -- a viable two-state solution with Israelis and Palestinians living in peace, side by side.

Cleverly expressed his awareness of the wider implications of the recent conflict between Israel and Palestine for Islamic communities in the Mideast region and in the UK.

"And the protection of those people are as close to our heart as the protection of Jewish people here in the UK we will relentlessly pursue what is the enduring UK Government position, which is a viable two-state solution with Israelis and Palestinians living in peace, side by side.

"Of course, the circumstances are a setback, but nevertheless, we will not be fatalistic. We will continue to work with Israel and the Palestinian people in the wider region to bring about that positive outcome," he said during a parliament session.

He said his country would make its own judgment regarding what happened when the Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in central Gaza was attacked Tuesday, killing nearly 500 victims.

They described the attack by Israel on the hospital as a "shocking tragedy," and said the UK is collaborating with allies to uncover information regarding the strike.

"We take note of what the US President (Joe) Biden has said but we will come to our own judgment. We will work on that quickly and will ensure that our assessment is put in the public domain as soon as we are confident of the details," he said.

On the question of whether he is in talks with Israeli counterparts to ensure that Palestinians will have an absolute right of return to their lands in the case of evacuation, Cleary said he regularly engages in conversations with the Israeli government and neighboring countries about Palestinian refugees. He did not delve into the specifics of the discussions.

Cleverly also addressed the role of the media in covering the conflict.

He urged broadcasters to prioritize accuracy above speed and emphasized that traditional media platforms should focus on delivering news with precision.

"I believe there is an attempt by broadcasters to try and outpace those social media platforms. The days of breaking news on those traditional platforms is long in the past. They should focus on accuracy rather than pace because their words have impact here in the UK and around the world," he added.

Cleverly referred to his efforts to reduce tensions by noting he visited Israel and engaged with G7 allies and regional partners.

"Today, I will visit the region again because we are aware that this requires a concerted effort. None of us know how this complex process will unfold," he said.

The conflict began Oct. 7 when Hamas initiated Operation Al-Aqsa Flood -- a multi-pronged surprise attack that included a barrage of rocket launches and infiltrations into Israel by land, sea, and air.

Hamas said the incursion was in retaliation for the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and growing violence by Israeli settlers.

The Israeli military then launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.

Gaza is experiencing a dire humanitarian crisis with no electricity, while water, food, fuel and medical supplies are running out.

UN chief Antonio Guterres urged an “immediate humanitarian ceasefire” to ease the “epic human suffering.”

At least 3,478 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza, while the Israeli death toll at more than 1,400.