UK says Israeli ambassador’s statement ruling out 2-state solution ‘disappointing’

LONDON

The UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron on Thursday said he found the Israeli ambassador’s statement ruling out a two-state solution “disappointing.”

Tzipi Hotovely, Israel’s ambassador to the UK, told Sky News Israel would not accept a two-state solution when the war in Gaza ends.

Questioned for the first time as foreign secretary in front of a Lords committee, Cameron was asked whether he thinks she was speaking under instruction from her government.

Cameron said in response: “I don’t know the answer. I read the transcript and it is disappointing but ultimately, true security and stability for Israel which is something I care deeply about – I believe in Israel as a homeland for Jewish people, I believe in its right to exist, to thrive, to defend itself and all the rest of it – long-term security I think requires there to be a state for Palestine as well.

“So I don’t think we should put too much weight on one interview. We have to get on and think about how to help make this happen,” he added.

Cameron also defended the UK’s decision not to vote in favor of a UN resolution demanding an immediate cease-fire in the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Responding to questions from Lady Blackstone of the Labour Party regarding the situation in Gaza, Cameron outlined the rationale behind the UK’s stance.

Cameron expressed his concern about the duration of the conflict but emphasized the need for a sustainable cease-fire.

He argued that an immediate cease-fire, as proposed by the UN resolution, might not be conducive to a lasting peace if it allows Hamas to launch further attacks similar to the Oct. 7 incident.

According to Cameron, the resolution called for both an immediate cease-fire and a two-state solution, which he deemed incompatible.

• David Cameron.