Two years since the horrific 7th October terrorist attacks in Israel by Hamas, the President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola said that the alternative to perpetual war must be seized.
Tomorrow marks two years since the horrific 7th of October terrorist attacks in Israel by Hamas that saw 1200 people killed and 251 people taken hostage - many of whom remain in the tunnels of Gaza. It is a day that will live forever in infamy in the history of our time.
The attack ignited a cycle of war and violence that has claimed the lives of tens of thousands, with the situation on the ground remaining critical.
So much has been destroyed. So many now know hunger and war. For all those mothers waiting for 730 days for any news of the fate of their children, the concept of time has become another burden for them to carry.
There is a real and comprehensive peace plan now on the table that provides a framework towards peace, stability and reconstruction in Gaza. That could finally see the return home of all those hostages still in Hamas’ tunnels. That keeps a two-State solution alive. That eases the suffering we see.
I know that we will debate this later this session, but this is a pivotal moment that can finally bring about the end to the inter-generational cycle of bloodshed, terror and violence. There is a clear alternative to perpetual war. That alternative must be seized.