Streeting Condemns “Unjustifiable” Israeli Actions in Gaza
Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting has voiced strong criticism of Israel’s recent military operations in Gaza, labeling the actions as “unjustifiable” and “intolerable.” Streeting conveyed his unease regarding the visuals of bombardments impacting the region, which he noted has been under Israeli threat for an extended period.
Health Secretary Deplores Ceasefire Breakdown
Streeting articulated his disappointment with Israel’s decision to retract from the Gaza ceasefire, describing it as “soul-destroying.” He asserted that the ongoing attacks are counterproductive to Israel’s interests and cannot be legitimized as self-defense, insisting, “It has got to stop.”
Escalating Casualties and UN Response
Recent Israeli airstrikes in Gaza resulted in the deaths of at least 65 individuals on Monday, including women, children, and two journalists. This occurred nearly a week after Israel’s cessation of the ceasefire agreement with Hamas. The intensity of these operations has prompted the United Nations to announce a reduction in its presence in Gaza, following an assault on one of its facilities that resulted in the death of a staff member and injuries to five others.
Labour’s Diplomatic Efforts and Perceived Powerlessness
Streeting maintained that the Labour government has employed “every diplomatic avenue available” since assuming power to attempt to resolve the “bloody conflict.” However, he expressed a sense of “powerlessness” as a UK cabinet minister in effectively mitigating the situation.
“Soul-Destroying” Impact on Civilian Lives
During a public event, Streeting elaborated on his sentiments, stating, “I find it soul-destroying seeing the breakdown of the ceasefire and the impact we are seeing on innocent human lives.” He referenced the plight of Susya in the West Bank, a locality facing demolition threats from Israelis and currently experiencing settler violence, noting, “This is completely unjustifiable. It is completely intolerable. It doesn’t serve in Israel’s self interest. It cannot be justified as self-defence, and it has got to stop.”
Frustration over Protracted Conflict
He further commented on his frustration, “It’s very frustrating, let me tell you, being a member of the cabinet the United Kingdom and still feeling powerless in the face of this appalling conflict which does nothing for Israelis or Palestinians.”
Mental Health Comments and Public Reaction
The health secretary’s statements on Gaza were part of a broader interview that included reflections on the public response to his prior remarks concerning the “overdiagnosis” of mental illness. While acknowledging the strong reactions he received, Streeting stopped short of a direct apology, stating, “We’ve got to handle this in a sensitive way, and I reflect on your feedback … to handle this in a sensitive way”.
Protests at Public Event
Streeting’s public appearance was disrupted by three NHS patients critical of his mental health comments and his stance on disability benefits. The protesters interrupted his speech, chanting “your cuts will kill” and displaying a banner that read: “Disability cuts will kill,” criticizing his support for planned reductions in personal independence payments for disabled individuals.
Defense of Government Policies and Economic Challenges
Addressing criticisms regarding government decisions to reduce disability benefits and foreign aid, Streeting appealed for understanding, urging Labour’s critics to “cut us some slack.” He defended the government’s relatively short time in power, acknowledging unpopular decisions but emphasizing the “scale of the challenge” faced.
Private Sector Role in NHS Waiting Lists
In defense of increased private sector involvement in reducing NHS waiting lists, Streeting argued it was not merely “pragmatic” but also “principled.” He asserted that utilizing spare capacity in the private sector to expedite treatment for NHS patients is a justified approach.