My Work Advocating For Peace and The Upholding of International Law
A Desperate Situation
The situation in Gaza remains a humanitarian crisis of unimaginable scale. According to the UN Human Rights Office, nearly 70% of those killed in Gaza over the past six months have been women and children, with international law violations reaching unprecedented levels.
For the innocent Palestinian civilians enduring these conditions, the Israeli Government's restrictions on humanitarian assistance exacerbate their suffering. As winter approaches, the need for urgent humanitarian relief, an immediate ceasefire, and the upholding of international law has never been more critical.
How This Affects Stratford and Bow
The ongoing conflict has deeply resonated with many in Stratford and Bow, where our community is shaped by its diversity and strong ties to global humanitarian issues. Over the past month, my office has received an overwhelming number of emails on this topic. Constituents have shared their concerns about the human cost of the conflict and the urgent need for peace.
What I’m Doing in Parliament
As your Member of Parliament, I am using my voice to push for meaningful action. Since my election, I have:
Spoken directly to the Foreign Secretary, urging him to uphold international law and pursue an urgent ceasefire and a release of the hostages. I have also questioned him on the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office’s review of their sanctions policy.
Advocated for increased humanitarian aid and the restoration of UNRWA funding, ensuring lifesaving work continues in Gaza.
Questioned the government on their response to international law violations and called for independent investigations into attacks on UN peacekeepers.
Met with the Palestinian Ambassador, Husam Zumlot, on several occasions to reaffirm solidarity with the people of Palestine and discuss pathways to peace.
Joined the Foreign Affairs Select Committee to scrutinise UK foreign policy and stand up for human rights globally.
The Labour Government’s Commitment
The new Labour Government is taking decisive action to support peace and uphold justice in the region. We have:
Called for a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, becoming the first G7 country to do so.
Sanctioned extremist Israeli settlers responsible for violence and disruption to peace efforts.
Suspended export licenses for military equipment that could be used by the Israeli Defence Forces in Gaza.
Dropped the UK objection to the International Criminal Court's warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, underscoring our commitment to international law.
These steps represent a significant shift from the previous government and reflect Labour’s commitment to prioritising justice and accountability. However there is still more to be done.
A Personal Commitment
For me, this is personal. My family’s history as refugees of the Sri Lankan civil war means I deeply understand the generational trauma caused by conflict. I am committed to being a voice for peace in Parliament and ensuring the UK plays a constructive role in building a lasting resolution.
Together, we can work towards a future where justice and human dignity are upheld for all.
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