LONDON: Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas welcomed British Foreign Secretary David Lammy to the Palestinian Authority’s headquarters in Ramallah on Monday. The high-level discussions focused on the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the need for urgent action to address escalating tensions in the region.
During their meeting, Abbas emphasised the critical importance of implementing UN Security Council Resolution 2735, which calls for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from the besieged coastal enclave. Abbas described the resolution as a vital step towards restoring calm and alleviating the suffering of the Palestinian people.
Support for Palestinian statehood
The Palestinian leader commended the UK for its continued support in efforts to achieve international recognition of the State of Palestine. Abbas reiterated his call for Palestine’s full membership in the United Nations, stressing that such recognition is essential for advancing the two-state solution — the longstanding framework for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
“The United Kingdom has historically played a pivotal role in the region,” Abbas said, “and its support for Palestinian statehood is a testament to its commitment to justice, peace, and international law.”
David Lammy reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to the two-state solution, emphasising the importance of renewed diplomatic efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace. Lammy expressed deep concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and called for immediate measures to address the needs of civilians caught in the conflict.
Humanitarian and security concerns
The discussions also addressed the worsening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, where Israeli airstrikes and an ongoing blockade have left residents facing severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. Abbas urged the UK and the broader international community to intensify efforts to provide humanitarian aid and support reconstruction efforts in the territory.
Abbas further highlighted the continued expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, which he described as a significant obstacle to peace. He called on the UK to exert pressure on Israel to halt settlement activity, which violates international law and undermines the viability of a future Palestinian state.
In response, Lammy expressed the UK’s deep concern over settlement expansion and reaffirmed Britain’s position that all parties must refrain from actions that escalate tensions or hinder the peace process. He called for renewed dialogue and confidence-building measures to pave the way for meaningful negotiations.
Strengthening bilateral relations
The visit also underscored the strengthening of bilateral ties between the UK and Palestine. Both leaders discussed opportunities for cooperation in areas such as economic development, education, and healthcare. Abbas thanked Lammy for Britain’s contributions to Palestinian development projects and stressed the importance of continued UK support for building a sustainable Palestinian economy.
Lammy noted the UK’s readiness to invest in initiatives that improve the lives of Palestinians and contribute to regional stability. “A strong and stable Palestinian society is crucial for achieving peace and security in the Middle East,” he stated.
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Regional and global context
The meeting comes at a time of heightened international focus on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with growing calls for renewed diplomatic engagement. The UK has been a vocal proponent of a negotiated solution to the decades-long conflict, urging both sides to return to the negotiating table.
Lammy’s visit to Ramallah is part of a broader diplomatic effort by the UK to engage with key stakeholders in the Middle East. His itinerary includes meetings with Israeli officials and regional leaders to discuss ways to de-escalate tensions and foster dialogue.
Abbas calls for international action
Abbas concluded the meeting by urging the UK to play a more active role in rallying international support for Palestinian rights and aspirations. He stressed that achieving peace requires a concerted global effort to uphold international law and ensure justice for the Palestinian people.
Lammy assured Abbas that the UK remains committed to working with international partners to support a peaceful resolution to the conflict. He called on all parties to demonstrate leadership and take steps to rebuild trust and lay the groundwork for peace.
As the meeting ended, both leaders expressed hope that renewed diplomatic efforts would bring the region closer to peace and stability. Lammy’s visit highlights the UK’s enduring role as a key player in Middle Eastern diplomacy and its commitment to supporting the Palestinian people.
