Committee Chair comments on ICAI's report on the UK's humanitarian aid to Gaza

• Independent Commission for Aid Impact
• Read our report: Humanitarian situation in Gaza
• Read the Government response: Humanitarian situation in Gaza

Chair comment

Chair of the International Development Committee, Sarah Champion MP, said:

“How can we say that people trapped in Gaza are being treated in accordance with international humanitarian law – or that the UK’s representations are having any meaningful effect? This independent review affirms what the Committee saw when we visited the region as far back as February, what we have heard in evidence from aid workers on the ground - who have seen far too many of their colleagues killed and injured - and what the whole world is now finally seeing.

“Some countries are choosing to respond with serious action: limiting arms sales to Israel and restoring funding to UNWRA. The FCDO’s response to our IDC report on the situation was full of the right words and the UK’s increased aid to Gaza was very welcome, but in the reality of the situation on the ground these are nothing more than a gesture. Despite all the diplomatic efforts and promises secured, a total of 59 aid trucks crossed into Gaza between 5 and 13 May – the rest turned back on excuses as flimsy as containing fruits with stones in them. Before this horror, 500 aid trucks were entering Gaza daily to meet normal need.

“The people of Gaza are being starved, deprived of water, and indiscriminately killed and injured. Medics and aid workers are dying. Mass graves are being uncovered. The money and words the UK Government has thrown at this situation have been ineffectual, but let's not pretend we are powerless. Enough is enough. The UK must now step up to its proper place in the international humanitarian system and take effective action.”

Further information

• About Parliament: Select committees
• Visiting Parliament: Watch committees

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