Over the past two years I have been contacted by many people in Plymouth about the ongoing situation in Gaza and I know how deeply people care about the humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for peace.

I welcome the news that a deal has been reached on the first stage of President Trump’s peace plan for Gaza. This marks a moment of profound relief, especially for the hostages, their families, and the civilian population of Gaza, all of whom have endured unimaginable suffering over the past two years.

I am grateful for the tireless diplomatic efforts of Egypt, Qatar, Turkiye, and the United States, supported by our regional partners, in securing this crucial first step. It is vital that this agreement is implemented in full, without delay, and that all restrictions on life-saving humanitarian aid to Gaza are lifted immediately.

The Prime Minster has called on all parties to honour the commitments they have made, to end the war, and to begin building the foundations for a just and lasting resolution to the conflict. The UK will support these immediate steps and the next stage of talks to ensure the full implementation of the peace plan.

I will continue to monitor developments closely and advocate for a peaceful and humanitarian approach but I understand the strength of feeling in Plymouth about the need for peace in Gaza. I hope the deal can now be implemented at pace, the hostages returned home and aid delivered via land routes in massive amounts to the people of Gaza. To achieve a lasting peace we need a two state solution of a secure Israel alongside a viable Palestinian state. The UK will continue to press all those involved for a lasting peace. For today, I am cautiously optimistic about the chances of peace and hope that the intolerable situation in Gaza may start to get better. There remains a lot to do and I will continue to press for the help and support Palestinians need and for the security Israelis need because ultimately two nations living side by side in peace is good for everyone in the Middle East and beyond.