Tony Blair statement on the Middle East
Thursday, Jul 31, 2014 in Office of Tony Blair, Office of the Quartet Representative
"I welcome the decision to implement a ceasefire with the goal of securing a broad, sustainable and long-term solution to the crisis in Gaza. This gives the sides, through the Egyptian mediators, the opportunity to reach a sustainable arrangement that will address Israel's security concerns, as well as ensure a better future for Gazans.
"Too many innocent lives have been lost in Gaza, and lives left in ruins. In order to give some hope back to the people of Gaza, its people have to see an end to the terrible loss of life, the destruction and the isolation from the world. The Palestinian Authority – as the proper authority in Gaza – will play a vital role in its reconstruction and redevelopment, helping to reunite Gaza and the West Bank.
"After all the misery and suffering of the past weeks, there cannot be a return to the status quo ante. Israelis need to know that they have genuine protection from rockets, tunnels and terror attacks. There must be a new and hopeful future for both sides. It is to that end we should work – and the international community is committed to implementing a durable arrangement.
"A longer term strategy will also give the sides an opportunity to create a political momentum, and lead to the renewal of the negotiations for a two-state solution”.
"I welcome the decision to implement a ceasefire with the goal of securing a broad, sustainable and long-term solution to the crisis in Gaza. This gives the sides, through the Egyptian mediators, the opportunity to reach a sustainable arrangement that will address Israel's security concerns, as well as ensure a better future for Gazans.
"Too many innocent lives have been lost in Gaza, and lives left in ruins. In order to give some hope back to the people of Gaza, its people have to see an end to the terrible loss of life, the destruction and the isolation from the world. The Palestinian Authority – as the proper authority in Gaza – will play a vital role in its reconstruction and redevelopment, helping to reunite Gaza and the West Bank.
"After all the misery and suffering of the past weeks, there cannot be a return to the status quo ante. Israelis need to know that they have genuine protection from rockets, tunnels and terror attacks. There must be a new and hopeful future for both sides. It is to that end we should work – and the international community is committed to implementing a durable arrangement.
"A longer term strategy will also give the sides an opportunity to create a political momentum, and lead to the renewal of the negotiations for a two-state solution”.
Document Sources: Office of the Quartet Representative (OQR)
Subject: Armed conflict, Ceasefire, Gaza Strip, Negotiations and agreements, Peace process, Quartet, Security issues, Statehood-related
Publication Date: 31/07/2014