On Tuesday in London, Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa met with senior British officials to brief them about the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the deteriorating situation in the occupied West Bank.
At various high-level meetings, including those with Foreign Secretary David Lammy and members of Parliament, Prime Minister Mustafa stressed the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, unfettered humanitarian access, and international pressure against Israel for any further military operations or settlement expansion.
Mustafa told reporters after his meetings: “The situation on the ground is catastrophic,” noting how over 34,000 people have been killed and entire neighborhoods demolished in Gaza while aid does not reach those most in need in Palestine and West Bank due to daily raids, detentions, and settler violence which fuel instability.
Mustafa’s trip marks his inaugural official visit to the UK since taking office in March 2024. Since taking over as PA prime minister, Mustafa has sought greater international engagement and support to address an ongoing conflict that shows no signs of resolution anytime soon.
British officials expressed deep concern over the humanitarian toll and reiterated their support for a two-state solution in a statement issued by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Foreign Secretary Lammy issued this statement: ‘We welcome Prime Minister Mustafa’s visit and reiterate our calls for immediate cessation of hostilities, full access for humanitarian aid providers and an approach towards lasting peace based on two states.”
Mustafa strongly encouraged the UK to recognize Palestine and take further diplomatic action against Israel for any alleged violations of international law by it. “Recognition is more than symbolic; it’s essential in creating fair and balanced peace processes,” Mustafa stated.
Civil society groups and pro-Palestinian organizations in the UK staged demonstrations outside Parliament during President Netanyahu’s visit, calling upon him to do more to stop arms sales to Israel and advocate for Palestinian rights. “Diplomatic words alone will not do,” stated Hana Qassem of UK-based Palestinian Solidarity Campaign.
Mustafa’s visit forms part of an ambitious diplomatic push by Palestinian leadership to gather international support and rebuild credibility after years of political stagnation. After holding meetings in London, his meetings will likely take place in Paris and Brussels as well.
As the humanitarian crisis worsens, the Palestinian government has made appeals to international partners for increased aid, reconstruction efforts, and diplomatic initiatives that will lead to an end of violence and revitalize the peace process.