Former UK Prime Minister discusses humanitarian aid and hostage release during visit to Israel
David Cameron, the former UK Prime Minister, met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog during his visit to Israel, as a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was announced. Cameron expressed optimism that the temporary cessation of hostilities could provide a vital opportunity to secure the release of hostages and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
The ceasefire, which is scheduled to begin on Friday at 7am local time, was brokered by Qatari officials. The first group of hostages, including 13 women and children, is expected to be released around 4pm on the same day.
Although the truce was confirmed, Cameron stressed to Netanyahu that all parties involved must ensure the agreement is upheld. “We must make it happen,” he urged, highlighting the critical need for aid to reach Gaza and alleviate the suffering caused by the ongoing conflict.
During his visit, Cameron also paid a visit to Kibbutz Be’eri, a location that witnessed some of the most intense violence during the Hamas assault. He condemned the hostage-taking, stressing that there is “never any excuse” for such actions. He expressed particular concern for British nationals held by Hamas.
Netanyahu reiterated his commitment to continuing the war effort, stating, “We will eradicate Hamas” to ensure long-term peace and security for Israel. He stressed that without eliminating this “murderous movement,” there would be no future hope for peace with the Palestinians or Arab nations.
Later, in a meeting with President Herzog, Cameron reflected on the trauma caused by the hostage crisis, drawing from his own experience when British hostages were taken in Syria during his tenure as Prime Minister.
Cameron’s visit follows a recent meeting in London with foreign ministers from various Arab and Islamic nations, where discussions focused on using the ceasefire to explore pathways for a peaceful future for both Israel and Palestine.
