Dear Alison, Angela and Matthew

We are writing to you as residents of Wirral who are deeply concerned about the situation in Gaza.

Israel is escalating its attacks against the Gaza Strip, including by announcing plans to “take control of all Gaza”. Urgent action is needed now, and Palestinians cannot wait for parliamentarians to return from their summer break to respond.

Palestinians in the Gaza Strip are being deliberately starved to death by Israel, and then shot as they desperately try to reach aid. MPs will be judged by their actions in responding to these atrocities.

Given the mounting evidence from the United Nations, respected human rights organisations, and international legal experts regarding breaches of international humanitarian law in Gaza, it is morally and legally indefensible for the UK to continue supplying arms or components that could be used in this conflict.

Our government has both a legal obligation under the Arms Trade Treaty and a moral responsibility to ensure British made weapons are not contributing to civilian deaths or the destruction of essential infrastructure.

We are far beyond the moment for statements and empty words without consequence. Now is the time for sanctions against Israel. This must include: the immediate imposition of a complete two-way arms embargo and an end to all military cooperation with Israel; introducing a total ban on all trade which aids or assists Israel’s violations of international law; and, immediate and wide-ranging sanctions, including travel bans and asset freezes, against Israeli government ministers including Benjamin Netanyahu.

Please join other parliamentarians in demanding the government:

This is not a partisan issue, but one of humanity, accountability, and respect for the rule of law. Silence now will be remembered. Our community and history will judge our leaders by whether they acted to prevent further starvation and bloodshed at this time.

We look forward to your urgent response and a public statement on this matter.