• I WISH I was surprised at the message from Liz Wheatley (Marching in solidarity with women in Gaza, March 7) but unfortunately I’m not.

She talks quite rightly of the huge difficulties with which the women of Gaza have to contend but omits the fate of the 40 women being held hostage in Gaza.

These hostages are also living in Gaza, albeit against their will. To hold innocent women hostage on International Women’s Day without comment is just extraordinary.

She further omits to criticise Hamas for refusing to give the names of the 40 hostages that they would release in the deal agreed in principle with Israel to release 400 prisoners. This has been arranged through the mediation of Qatar, Egypt and the United States.

All Hamas have had to do is release the names and there now would be a prolonged ceasefire in Gaza.

Hamas will continue to strive for war while they have the support of so many trade unionists throughout the Western world although free trade unions are banned by Hamas.

The situation is tragic.

DAVID STEBBING, NW3