Press Release: APCUK Hosts Parliamentary Session Urging UK Government Action on Visa Scheme for Gaza Children
London, UK — December 12, 2024: A parliamentary session held at Westminster today spotlighted the urgent need for a British government visa scheme to provide medical treatment to injured children from Gaza. Organized by the Association of the Palestinian Community in the UK (APCUK) and hosted by the Independent Alliance in the British Parliament, the session called for immediate humanitarian action to address the suffering of Gaza’s children amidst the ongoing Israeli war on Gaza.
The session was opened by MP Iqbal Mohamed, a member of the Independent Alliance, and moderated by Sameh Habib, Head of the Politi cal and Parties Affairs Committee at APCUK. Key speakers included Mr. Said Shehadeh, Director of the Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF); Dr. Nehad Khanfar, Chairman of the Association of the Palestinian Community in the UK; Neil Sammond from the War on Want organization; and Dr. Husam Zomlot, the Palestinian Ambassador to London.
Expressing deep frustration with the British government’s lack of action on calls to establish a visa scheme for Gaza’s injured children. Dr. Nehad Khanfar highlighted the Palestinian community’s willingness to fully fund the initiative if the government would allow the children entry.
“The Palestinian community is profoundly troubled by what appears to be discrimination against Gaza’s children simply because they are Palestinian,” said Dr. Khanfar. “We urge the government to treat Gaza’s children with the same compassion and urgency shown to Ukrainian children, stressing that any further delay jeopardises the futures of young lives that could otherwise be saved.”
Other speakers painted a harrowing picture of the suffering endured by Gaza’s children amidst ongoing bombardments and shortages of medical care. They accused the UK government of failing in its humanitarian responsibilities and called for immediate action. Neil Sammond of War on Want asserted the moral imperative for the UK to act swiftly: “This is not a political issue; it’s a question of humanity.”
Dr. Husam Zomlot, the Palestinian Ambassador to London, acknowledged some positive steps taken by the British government but stressed that these efforts remain insufficient. “More must be done for Gaza and Palestine,” he urged, calling for tangible progress to address the humanitarian crisis.
The session underscored the collective demand for the British government to implement a visa scheme prioritizing medical aid for Gaza’s injured children, ensuring they receive the treatment necessary to safeguard their futures. APCUK and other advocates reiterated their commitment to supporting the initiative both financially and logistically, should the government grant approval.
This parliamentary session marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing advocacy for Gaza’s children, uniting voices from various sectors to call on the UK government to take immediate humanitarian action and provide the necessary support to those who need it most.
About APC-UK:
The Association of the Palestinian Community in the UK (APC-UK) unites and supports Palestinians in the UK, promoting human rights and fostering connections with the diaspora and Palestine. We provide a platform for cultural, social, and national events, welcoming all Palestinians regardless of faith, gender, or ideology. As a non-religious, non-political organization, APC-UK focuses on advancing the collective interests of the Palestinian community.
Media Contact: politics@apc-uk.org