Gaza: Humanitarian Situation

Scott Arthur Excerpts

Thursday 12th November 2026 Commons Chamber

[Dr Scott Arthur (Edinburgh South West) (Lab)]

I think many Conservative voters in Edinburgh South West would be disgusted by the shadow Foreign Secretary’s comments. The only reassurance I can give them is that when he made the comments, behind him were four fully empty Benches—perhaps those Members had prior sight of the right hon. Gentleman’s comments.

Eman attended my constituency surgery on Saturday; she has probably attended more of my surgeries than any other constituent. She was in tears talking about this issue, not because she has watched it on TV or seen pictures on social media but because she has lost friends and family in this conflict. She is an amazing woman, and it is always fantastic speaking to her. On her behalf, I want to ask a couple of questions. First, I know that it is a very congested site, but is there no prospect of airdropping aid into Gaza? Secondly, Netanyahu has said that this is nothing to do with Israel—that it has no responsibility. Was there any acceptance in the diplomatic talks that Israel is partly responsible at least and holds the keys to resolving it?

[Stephen Doughty]

I thank my hon. Friend for conveying so powerfully the views of his constituent. It is those direct connections that we often hear about so passionately in our constituencies. Indeed, in my own surgeries in Cardiff South and Penarth I have had individuals who have family in Gaza, and I know humanitarian workers who have worked there as well.

Airdrops are an extraordinarily complex logistical operation to pull off. The best way to get aid in is by reopening those crossing points and making sure that there are no restrictions on dual use. That would have the maximum impact that we want. I could not have been clearer: Israel ultimately has the responsibility. As the occupying power, it has the legal and moral responsibility to allow in this lifesaving aid. We urge it to do so.