The UK's Defence Secretary Grant Shapps is set to discuss efforts to accelerate the delivery of lifesaving humanitarian assistance into Gaza during a visit today to the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs) and Israel. He is expected to push for aid to be delivered to Palestinians faster – including by sea directly into Gaza.
Mr Shapps will meet interior minister of the Palestinian Authority, General Ziad Hab Al-Reeh in the OPTs, and Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant in Tel Aviv during his trip.
The Ministry of Defence said Mr Shapps will also discuss progress in recovering hostages – including a number of Britons – who were taken by Hamas during the October 7th attacks on Israel.
Mr Shapps commented:
"My visit this week is an important opportunity to discuss efforts to accelerate the delivery of lifesaving humanitarian assistance into Gaza and efforts to secure the release of all remaining hostages.
We are working to find the best way to get aid and support to those in desperate need in the quickest and most direct route. That includes options by land, sea and air.
We have deployed an extra 1,000 military personnel in the Middle East and our forces are there to support the humanitarian aid effort and help in stabilising the area.
The events of 7 October horrified the world and I personally want to offer my support and condolences to Israel and its people.
We fully support Israel’s right to defend itself, but it is important their fight against Hamas terrorists remains within international law."