Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle (GP)

My Lords, I begin by acknowledging the year of agony for the hostages held by Hamas and their families and friends. I regret that the International Committee of the Red Cross has not been able to check on their welfare and I express the hope, as we hold this debate at a point of continuing uncertainty, that both sides will use its offer to facilitate the return of the hostages and the release of Palestinian prisoners as expeditiously and kindly as possible. I sincerely thank the noble Baroness, Lady Kennedy, for securing this debate on the specific point of the healthcare system in Gaza, but I must start by reflecting on what is happening now. These are hopefully final tragedies, but all the more heart-wrenching for family and friends. Overnight and today, reports suggest that at least 70 more people have been killed in Gaza, adding to a death toll of more than 46,000. Very many of them were children and the majority were clearly non-combatants. It is an awful blight on the whole world. Two million people have for 15 months endured a level of horror and inhumanity that should haunt us for ever: multifamily homes and whole blocks, streets, hospitals and schools obliterated to a pile of concrete, all too often with fragile human bodies entombed. Will the Government co-operate fully with the International Criminal Court in pursuit of justice against all those who have committed war crimes? What will they do to ensure the restoration of the medical facilities that are so desperately needed? The Green Party has been calling for a ceasefire since October 2023. While the apparent agreement offers hope, it must mark the beginning of addressing the root causes of the conflict. The ongoing occupation, the siege of Gaza and the systematic violation of Palestinian human rights cannot continue. The UK Government must formally recognise the state of Palestine —a vital step towards justice, equality and a sustainable peace. It is also a demonstration of commitment to international law and a balanced approach to the region, which must include a full suspension of all arms exports to the Israeli military.