Deepest condolences for lives lost as humanitarian crisis unfolds in Israel and Gaza.
The horror and human suffering unfolding in Israel and Gaza since the attacks by terrorist group Hamas against the people of Israel, has rightly shocked the world.
My deepest condolences to Israel and its people for all lives brutally taken; and to members of our Jewish community in Newham who have relatives and family members in Israel. I stand with you in condemning the heinous acts being perpetrated by Hamas.
As the situation escalates further, the images from Israel and Gaza are harrowing, as is the rising human cost on innocent people and communities both sides. I similarly stand by the Palestinian people who want a peaceful resolution and the promise of the two-state solution, where Israel and Palestine coexist as neighbours and friends.
I know that in our borough, and across the entirety of London, thousands of people will be deeply concerned about the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Israel and Gaza; and the impact it will have on community relations in our country as people protest.
The right to protest is the cornerstone of our democracy in our country, but not at the expense of fuelling hate. In Newham, we will continue to stand resolute in the face of antisemitism and Islamophobia that seeks to divide our community.
Our strength is the diversity of our people and our community bonds. In partnership with faith leaders and community organisations, we will strengthen our resolve to deepen understanding and respect.
I urge everyone to report any hate crimes to the police, as we work with them to ensure the safety of all our residents during this most perilous of times.
