London, United Kingdom – British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper stressed that the time has come to stop the war in the Middle East and end the suffering of civilians in the Gaza Strip. She emphasized that Palestinians have the full right to establish their independent state.
During her speech at the Labour Party conference, Cooper explained that Britain’s recognition of a Palestinian state embodies its historic commitment to the two-state solution. She considered this solution the only way to achieve security and lasting peace between Palestinians and Israelis.
She noted that several countries, including France, Canada, Australia, and Portugal, have joined the United Kingdom in officially recognizing Palestine. It has already been recognized by more than 140 countries at the United Nations.
Cooper also called for an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages held for nearly two years. She held the Israeli government responsible for “acts of starvation and depriving civilians of food, water, and medicine.”