Commons Sense
The killing of journalist Shireen Abu Akleh was truly shocking and that is why it has been widely condemned by world leaders, the UN and civil society. The subsequent footage from Shireen’s funeral, showing Israeli police firing teargas at mourners and attacking them with batons, was deeply disturbing and appalling. I condemn this violence in the strongest sense.
Shireen’s killing was not only an outrageous act, but an attack on the freedom of the media, which plays a crucial role in reporting conflicts, seeking truth and telling the stories of those affected. International law and human rights must be upheld, and I stand with all those demanding accountability for Shireen’s death. There must be an urgent, independent and impartial inquiry to secure that.
Acts of violence, such as Shireen’s killing, further deepen the deep mistrust and suspicion between Palestinians and Israelis, and without justice being served and truth laid bare, a peaceful resolution only becomes harder to achieve.
A two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians is the only long-term, realistic resolution to this conflict. Sadly, the situation facing many Palestinians is dire and there are, unfortunately, huge barriers to achieving peace. These barriers include the demolition of homes and the forced evictions of
Palestinians in the occupied territories; the construction of illegal settlements; and the threat of annexation. These actions entrench divisions, increase hatred and make peace harder to achieve.
There will not be a just and lasting peace between Israel and Palestine until the occupation is brought to a permanent end, and both Palestinians and Israelis enjoy security, dignity and human rights. A viable and sovereign Palestinian state alongside a safe and secure Israel is, I believe, the only way to secure a meaningful and long-lasting peace. The UK Government should therefore accept the need to officially recognise Palestine as a state, as already done by almost
140 countries around the world.
Shireen’s killing, even outside of its blatant assault on press freedom, is a tragic event for Palestinians and fair minded people across the globe. Our country should play an active role in seeking justice for Shireen, her family and Palestinians. Justice must be delivered.