Governments must do more to get aid into Gaza, says UNISON at Labour Conference
The government must do more to stop the slaughter and secure peace in the Middle East, says UNISON today (Monday).
Speaking at the Labour conference, the union’s general secretary Christina McAnea said the government’s recent recognition of the state of Palestine was an important step in the process.
However, she said more has to be done by the international community to get aid into Gaza and prevent further bloodshed.
In her speech to the conference in Liverpool Christina McAnea said: “The momentous decision by this government to recognise the state of Palestine is a critical contribution towards achieving peace in the Middle East.
“It confirms the UK’s commitment to a two-state solution in deeds, not just words.
“What happened on 7 October 2023 was horrific.
“On the news every night, we see the Palestinians of Gaza suffering famine, death and destruction. And yes, genocide too.
“Most experts agree this is genocide. But if we wait for this to be confirmed by a court, it will be too late. It is already happening.
“It was really good to see the prime minister co-ordinating recognition of the state of Palestine with other like-minded countries.
“That powerful coalition has made a difference. Netanyahu’s vitriolic reaction at the United Nations confirms that.
“If the UK government can bring countries together like this, in the face of opposition from Israel and the US, it can co-ordinate support and aid to stop the killing, end the famine and save lives.
“Sending in aid via air drops is the most ineffective and costly way of delivering supplies.
“We must do more. Why can’t we, and those other countries that have recognised Palestine send fleets of boats loaded with food and medical supplies right onto the shores of Gaza?
“We can’t continue to watch from the sidelines in horror as people are being slaughtered.
“As women and children starve to death or are maimed trying to reach the food that could keep them alive.
“We need to intervene as we have done in other countries in the past to stop the slaughter of innocent people and prevent famine.
“The Labour Party and unions have a long and proud history of campaigning for peace in the Middle East. Now is the time to act once more.
“We’ve got to find a way to end the war and bring all the hostages back.
“Of course, Israel has a right to defend itself and protect its citizens, as any country has. But who is defending Palestine and protecting the people of Gaza?
“The tide is turning, with one country after another recognising Palestine. We now need to end the blockade, ensure aid gets in and the bombs stop falling.”
Notes to editors:
– Christina McAnea was speaking to the composite motion “Peace in the Middle East 2”.
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union, with more than 1.3 million members providing public services in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy.
Media contacts:
Dan Ashley M: 07508 080349 E: d.ashley@unison.co.uk
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk
The article Governments must do more to get aid into Gaza, says UNISON at Labour Conference first appeared on the UNISON National site.
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