UK Envoy Simon Walters Urges Comprehensive Gaza Deal for Hostage Release and War End

British Ambassador to Israel Simon Walters has called for a comprehensive deal to free the remaining 101 hostages held in Gaza, end the war, and establish a sustainable future for the coastal enclave. Speaking from his home in Ramat Gan on Tuesday, Walters emphasized the urgent need to shift from phased negotiations to a single, all-encompassing agreement.

“We need to be honest; the phased approach of the last year is very unlikely to work,” Walters said, referencing the failed May 31 three-phase deal. Instead, he urged for accelerated negotiations that include a ceasefire, the immediate release of hostages, and a plan for Gaza’s future.

Walters highlighted the gravity of the hostage situation, wearing a yellow ribbon pin symbolizing the call for their freedom. He noted that among the captives are five individuals with strong ties to the UK, including one British citizen, Emily Damari.

“It is appalling that there are hostages held in the tunnels,” Walters said, reiterating that Hamas bears sole responsibility for the ongoing captivity. “Hamas could end this suffering by agreeing to a ceasefire and releasing all hostages immediately and unconditionally.”

The ambassador stressed that diplomacy remains the most viable solution. “Military force alone cannot defeat guerrilla groups embedded in civilian populations,” he said, drawing on his extensive experience in conflict zones like Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan. Walters called for a combined approach of military and political efforts to achieve long-term stability.

Despite his criticism of prolonged warfare, Walters reaffirmed the UK’s unwavering commitment to Israel’s defense. The Royal Air Force has actively participated in defending Israel from Iranian missile attacks, working alongside Israeli and U.S. forces in operations as recently as October 1.

“The British army is prepared to put its own aircraft and personnel in harm’s way to defend Israel,” Walters said, highlighting the UK’s role in maintaining Israel’s security.

However, the UK has also suspended 30 arms contracts related to Gaza, citing concerns over the risk of international law violations. Walters clarified that such reviews are a routine legal requirement, emphasizing that they do not diminish the UK’s support for Israel.

Walters expressed concern over rising instability in the West Bank, citing extremist violence against Palestinians, particularly during the ongoing olive harvest. He pointed to 203 incidents involving settlers since October 1, resulting in injuries, property damage, and the destruction of over 1,600 olive trees.

“Extremists are undermining support for Israel when Israel most needs it; they are not acting in Israel’s interest,” Walters said, noting that the UK has sanctioned several groups responsible for inciting or facilitating human rights abuses.

Walters urged all parties to return to the negotiating table to secure a hostage deal and establish a peaceful resolution for Gaza. He underscored that Great Britain remains a steadfast ally of Israel while advocating for solutions that align with international law and humanitarian principles.

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