This week I want to talk about the unfolding tragedy in the Middle East. The latest chapter in this tragedy began with a horrific, violent attack by Hamas on men, women and children attending a concert and in nearby areas. Some were killed, others injured, some captured. The tragedy has continued as war between Israel and Hamas has escalated, killing thousands of civilians.

Many of you have written to me on this issue. Some of you have taken one side or another but most have, like me, just been horrified by deaths of Israeli and Palestinian civilians. Every civilian life lost in a war is heartbreaking, and I hope and pray that we will soon see an end to the war and the peace process in the Middle East can get back on track so Palestine and Israel can coexist together.

The modern history of the Middle East is complex. Liberal Democrats have called for a two-state solution for a long time and have called for the recognition of Palestine as a state so that dialogue can take place between two equal partners. We have also consistently defended international law and called for illegal settlements to be ended. Our foreign affairs Spokesperson Layla Moran, the first MP of Palestinian descent, has spoken movingly about her family who are trapped in Gaza, but also defends the right of Israel to protect itself.

I believe that two things should now happen. First, there must be a humanitarian ceasefire or pause so that food and aid can reach innocent Gazans who are caught up in the crisis through no fault of their own. I’ve no doubt that the vast majority of us want to see the fighting stop but this can only work if both sides, including Hamas, agree to stop attacks.

Second, communities across the world need to come together. I have been appalled by the rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia across the country. For many years in Watford our religious communities have worked closely together, with the Watford Interfaith Association making a real difference here. I know that we are united in our belief that there is no place for antisemitism, Islamophobia or any kind of prejudice in Watford. We must continue to do everything we can to work together for greater peace, understanding and hope for the future.

  • Peter Taylor is the elected Mayor of Watford