They urge the UK government to use its influence to advocate for a ceasefire, expressing concerns about the safety of their families and the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
The ICJP criticized the UK government for its response to the crisis, stating that calls for humanitarian pauses are insufficient and that the government's failure to advocate for a ceasefire endangers their loved ones in Gaza. They highlighted the disparity between their experience and the government's approach to other international crises, such as the conflict in Ukraine.
At a press conference, British-Palestinians shared their personal stories of loss and difficulty in maintaining contact with family members in Gaza. Lubaba Khalid revealed she learned of her relatives' deaths through social media, while Omar Mofeed criticized the UK government's visa policies for evacuees from Gaza, contrasting them with more accessible schemes for Ukrainian refugees.
The UK government, through the Foreign Office, stated it has assisted over 150 British nationals and dependents in leaving Gaza and is working to facilitate further departures in coordination with Israeli and Egyptian authorities. The Foreign Office is also collaborating with the Home Office to process visas for non-British family members of British nationals who have fled Gaza.