Douglas Alexander MP has thanked constituents who participated in last Friday’s online public meeting on the latest developments in Gaza and the West Bank.

More than 50 constituents joined the online discussion, which began with a statement read out by a representative of East Lothian Friends of Palestine. During the meeting, which lasted more than two hours, dozens of constituents asked questions and made points on a variety of aspects of the conflict in the region and the fragile ceasefire declared last month.

Mr Alexander responded to a range of questions raised by the constituents on the UK Government’s policy on the conflict and Israel. He emphasised the government’s central objective of securing and maintaining a ceasefire to end the suffering of the Gazan people and enable humanitarian aid to reach them.

He also spoke about the work the UK Government has undertaken with allies on recognising Palestinian statehood to protect the viability of a two-state solution and create a path towards lasting peace for the Israeli and Palestinian people.

Commenting after the meeting, Mr Alexander said:

“I want to thank all the constituents who took the time to join the meeting and discuss this important issue. I know how passionately people feel about the events of the last two years and the suffering it has inflicted on Palestinians and Israelis.

“I was pleased to ensure everyone was able to have their say and listened carefully to the wide range of points and views expressed during the meeting. Of course, this dialogue will continue as the world seeks to find a pathway to a lasting peace in the region.”