Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

01/19/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/19/2025 11:02

Foreign Secretary statement on release of three hostages in Gaza

Press release

Foreign Secretary statement on release of three hostages in Gaza

The Foreign Secretary has issued a statement welcoming the release of three hostages in Gaza, including British national Emily Damari.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

"We welcome the release of three hostages in Gaza, including British national Emily Damari, and thank Qatar, Egypt and the US for their support in bringing these individuals' and their families' horrific ordeal to an end.

"Our thoughts are also with those still waiting to be reunited with their loved ones, including the families of UK linked hostages Eli Sharabi, Oded Lifshitz and Avinatan Or.

"We are clear the deal must be implemented in full; all hostages be returned and aid be allowed to flow into Gaza now.

"This ceasefire must lead to a credible pathway towards a two-state solution in which Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in peace."

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Published 19 January 2025

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