Jordan's Journal

The current situation in Israel and Gaza Strip is deeply concerning. I've been contacted by a number of people in Colchester asking me to urge the Government to act to bring an end to the current wave of violence.

Like many people across the country, I have been very concerned by the up surge in violence in the Gaza Strip over recent days. I have been horrified by the scale of the lose of life in Gaza, together with the fear that many other innocent lives may be lost if Israel does not cease its attacks.

These events make a dangerous time in the region. I support the calls for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council to press for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Indeed, the Government has already said that there must be an urgent ceasefire and immediate halt to all violence. The deteriorating humanitarian situation is deeply disturbing. Israel must abide by its humanitarian obligations and assist the prompt and sufficient delivery of food, fuel and medicine into the Gaza Strip.

It is already clear that there is a clear consensus in the international community to support an end to the violence and a quick resumption of peace talks.

The violence we have seen over recent days, for me, reflects a frustration and weakness in the ongoing search for the two-state solution. While I understand why Israel maintains that its actions are in defence of its citizens living near the Gaza border, it is clear that the interests of all sides will only be served through the creation of a viable Palestinian state existing alongside a safe and secure Israel. 

I hope that as 2008 draws to a close, so to the violence will draw to a close, and that as 2009 begins we see a return to peace and a renewed political process.