The Palestinian Ambassador to the UK has strongly reiterated the "need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza" saying it's a "top priority".
Speaking at the Arab British Chamber of Commerce earlier today, Husam Zomlot stated several times throughout his speech that Gaza must be made "liveable" again after claiming that Israeli forces have damaged or destroyed "around 70 per cent" of Gaza’s homes and buildings and that out of 38 hospitals in the area, only eight now remain functioning.
He highlighted the serious conditions the people of Palestine are facing from the ongoing war.
Zomlot said: "Some 1.9 million people, that is 85 per cent of Gaza's population, have been displaced to the South of Gaza and are still bombed regularly even though these are supposed to be safe areas.
Husam Zomlot highlighted the serious conditions the people of Palestine are facing from the ongoing war
PA
"There is no running water anywhere, no gas or electricity, and barely any fuel.
"Gaza's entire population of 2.3 million is being starved, 93 per cent face crisis level of hunger and malnutrition.
"Infectious diseases are being brought about by contaminated water. A lack of hygiene and overcrowding is already becoming a pandemic.
"This will only get worse during the cold winter months. Gaza's ability to treat has been limited."
Husam Zomlot claims that Israeli forces have damaged or destroyed "around 70 per cent" of Gaza’s homes and buildings
Reuters
Figures released yesterday, say the death toll of Palestinians since October 7 has reached more than 24,000 yet the ambassador fears the number could be much higher due to "the lack of health, treatment, healthcare, starvation, diseases".
The Ambassador insisted that the conflict had no religious elements to it, saying: "Religion is absolutely innocent of this situation. This is not a Muslim/Jewish issue.
"It's a ridiculous proposition to assume that we have an issue with Israel because of their identity."
He also called on the UK and US governments to support an "immediate ceasefire" while saying that Palestine "refuses any military or partial solutions for Gaza" and that there are "only political and legal solutions".
"Nothing comes before an immediate ceasefire. All those who want to discuss other issues are missing the point, are not helping. This remains our top priority."
GB News has approached the Israeli Embassy in London for comment.