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Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories 2025-05-20
20 May 2025
Lead MP
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs
Debate Type
Ministerial Statement
Tags
EconomyTaxationBrexitForeign Affairs
Other Contributors: 50
At a Glance
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs raised concerns about israel and the occupied palestinian territories 2025-05-20 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Government Statement
EconomyTaxationBrexitForeign Affairs
Government Statement
Today I am postponing 29 local elections affecting 3.7 million voters in England due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The Israel Defence Forces started a new extensive ground operation throughout Gaza: Operation Gideon’s Chariots, involving five Israeli divisions operating there. Prime Minister Netanyahu has announced that only minimal amounts of food will be allowed into Gaza to prevent hunger. Fewer than 10 trucks entered Gaza yesterday, causing the UN and WHO to warn about starvation among hundreds of thousands of civilians. The humanitarian catastrophe has intensified since the ceasefire collapsed two months ago, with hospitals being struck repeatedly, leading three more in northern Gaza to cease operations this weekend. Despite efforts by the US, Qatar, and Egypt for a ceasefire, none have emerged; we demand Hamas release all hostages immediately unconditionally. Netanyahu's Government plan is morally unjustifiable, wholly disproportionate, and counterproductive; it will not eliminate Hamas or make Israel secure. Since entering office, our government has taken action on Gaza: restoring UNRWA funding, supporting international courts’ independence, suspending arms export licences, providing food and medical care to hundreds of thousands of Gazans, and working with Arab partners for a reconstructed Gaza no longer run by Hamas. We have raised concerns in the UN Security Council and before the International Court of Justice; yesterday, my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister joined leaders from France and Canada in strongly opposing Israel's new military operations. Despite our efforts, this Israeli Government’s actions continue, isolating them from friends and partners worldwide, damaging their image globally. Therefore, today I am announcing that we have suspended negotiations with this Israeli Government on a new free trade agreement and will be reviewing co-operation under the 2030 bilateral road map.
Priti Patel
Con
Witham
Question
I am grateful to the Foreign Secretary for giving me advance sight of his statement. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is appalling and we continue to see the intolerable suffering of life being lost. A sustainable end to this terrible conflict is urgently and desperately needed, and that means the release of the remaining 58 hostages from the cruel Hamas captivity that we have all witnessed for too long; it means a significant increase in aid getting into Gaza; and it means a new future for Gaza, free from the terror and misery caused by Hamas. What recent engagements has the Foreign Secretary had to try to secure their release?
Minister reply
The government continues to engage with relevant parties privately and publicly, raising concerns in the UN Security Council and before the International Court of Justice.
Priti Patel
Con
Witham
Question
On aid, I have been asking the Government for weeks for clarity over the way they are using their influence to get aid into Gaza. What practical solutions has the UK worked on with Israel to address concerns about aid diversion?
Minister reply
We have repeatedly pressed for a change in course and direction, sanctioning entities in October and signing an agreement to bolster support for the Palestinian Authority when Prime Minister Mustafa visited London last month.
Naz Shah
Lab
Burnley
Question
How will the Government's decision impact the delivery of aid in Gaza?
Minister reply
Our approach seeks to create pressure on Israel to lift its blockade and allow for full humanitarian access. We are engaging with international partners to ensure that aid can be delivered effectively.
Calum Miller
LD
Bicester and Woodstock
Question
Will the expanded sanctions list include extremist Ministers Ben-Gvir and Smotrich?
Minister reply
We condemn the statements of these Ministers. We are keeping their language under review and will continue to discuss these issues with our international partners.
Yasmin Qureshi
Lab
Bolton South and Walkden
Question
What additional steps will be taken to prevent the impending humanitarian crisis in Gaza?
Minister reply
We are working on further sanctions and urging Israel to allow for immediate resumption of aid. We also support international efforts such as the UN's calls for action.
Mark Pritchard
Con
The Wrekin
Question
Welcomes the Foreign Secretary’s actions and sanctions, asks if he agrees that the Israeli Prime Minister has misled the US President over aid to Gaza.
Minister reply
Agrees with the sentiment expressed by the right hon. Gentleman, noting concerns about the position of the Netanyahu Government regarding humanitarian assistance.
Lammy
Lab
Question
Asked if he is concerned about reports of deep frustration in the US Administration over the situation.
Minister reply
Notes President Trump's comments on the ongoing war and reiterates the UK’s commitment to international humanitarian law.
Florence Eshalomi
Labour/Co-op
Vauxhall and Camberwell Green
Question
Concerned about Israel disregarding international law, asks what tangible consequences will be taken if this continues.
Minister reply
Reiterates the suspension of arms sales in September to ensure compliance with international humanitarian law.
Kit Malthouse
Con
North West Hampshire
Question
Questions whether further concrete action will be taken and urges the Foreign Secretary to stand up against the blockage.
Minister reply
Responds that actions have been taken and continues discussions with international partners.
Abtisam Mohamed
Lab
Sheffield Central
Question
Asks about efforts to prevent genocide as per obligations under the Geneva Convention and why Minister Smotrich is not sanctioned.
Minister reply
Reiterates actions taken since coming into government and continues discussions with international partners.
Stephen Flynn
SNP
Aberdeen South
Question
Asks if the Foreign Secretary supports votes on recognising Palestine, ending arms sales to Israel, and supporting ICJ/ICC.
Minister reply
Supports the international criminal architecture but emphasises the need for collective action.
Paul Waugh
Labour/Co-op
Rochdale
Question
Welcomes robust action on illegal settlements and suspending free trade talks, asks what history will judge Governments on.
Minister reply
Acknowledges the frustration but emphasises the need for collective international action.
Roger Gale
Con
Herne Bay and Sandwich
Question
Urges the Foreign Secretary to take a cross-party message back to the Prime Minister about the two-state solution.
Minister reply
Acknowledges the right hon. Gentleman’s experience and confirms discussions with French counterparts and Saudi Arabia.
Alex Ballinger
Lab
Halesowen
Question
Asks what further discussions have been had with the EU on suspending the EU-Israel association agreement.
Minister reply
Confirms participation in an informal meeting of EU Foreign Ministers and discussion with Kaja Kallas.
Wendy Chamberlain
Lib Dem
North East Fife
Question
Asks about practical steps taken to separate weapons manufacture for Ukraine from supply chains to Israel.
Minister reply
Reiterates decisions on security obligations and confirms the separation of supply chains.
Ayoub Khan
Ind
Birmingham Perry Barr
Question
This Government have consistently maintained that the determination of genocide, ethnic cleansing and war crimes is a matter for a competent court, yet the lawyers instructed by this Government to defend against a case brought by Al-Haq recently have been unequivocal that it is this Government’s firm position that no genocide is occurring, that we have no legal obligations to the International Court of Justice ruling and that it is a matter for Parliament, not the courts. I ask the Foreign Secretary to clarify: are those lawyers speaking on behalf of this Government, and if that truly is the Government’s position, will he finally explain why he sees military support for Israel as compatible with our obligations under international law, rather than saying it is simply a matter for the courts?
Minister reply
That is a crude caricature of a very serious issue. I took a decision back in September in relation to international humanitarian law in suspending arms sales that could be used in Gaza because these are very serious issues—I understand the issues that are before the ICC and the ICJ, and they are very serious. It is because votes in this Parliament helped to set up those mechanisms and made us part of them that I leave it to them to make the necessary determinations that they must properly make.
Meg Hillier
Lab Co-op
Hackney South and Shoreditch
Question
We have seen the slaughter of innocents going on for far too long, and as others have said, people are dying right now. I welcome the Foreign Secretary’s statement and the Prime Minister’s statement yesterday with France and Canada. The Foreign Secretary mentioned that he had met Vice-President Vance. To get a breakthrough, because Israel is not listening, America needs to be part of this. Can he tell us about that conversation with Vice-President Vance and whether he has any hope that we can make a statement jointly with the US as well?
Minister reply
I know that my hon. Friend’s constituents will be deeply concerned about what is happening. We had hoped, and I know Vice-President Vance had hoped, that we would get a breakthrough in the ceasefire that was being brokered by the United States, Qatar and Egypt. She will have seen that the United States has been able to strike direct deals—it got its hostage out last week by going direct to Hamas—and that the breakthrough we had hoped for towards the end of last week has not come through. I do not foresee a ceasefire deal at this stage. That is why the concrete action against Netanyahu’s murderous Government is long overdue.
Melanie Ward
Lab
Cowdenbeath and Kirkcaldy
Question
I welcome today’s steps forward, particularly on trade. The fact that we are on the brink of the ethnic cleansing of the Palestinians is such a collective global failure that it betrays words. Unlike the shadow Foreign Secretary, will the Foreign Secretary confirm the UK’s total opposition to Israeli plans to replace humanitarian non-governmental organisations and the UN with mercenaries? On the important statement by the UK, France and Canada, threatening further important multilateral action if Israel does not stop, what is the red line?
Minister reply
Let me be crystal clear: this Government oppose Israel’s model for aid, which does not respect humanitarian principles and cannot deliver aid effectively at speed or at the scale required. It is wrong and it is dangerous for the humanitarian system.
Afzal Khan
Lab
Manchester Rusholme
Question
I welcome the Foreign Secretary’s statement, and last night’s collective statement. However, repeated strong words without action now ring hollow. Netanyahu’s Government continue with the starvation and killing of innocent Palestinians. Suspending trade negotiations and other steps that the Foreign Secretary has announced today will not stop the killing of innocent Palestinians, because we are dealing with an extremist right-wing Netanyahu Government. Concrete steps to uphold our humanitarian commitments are overdue, so when will the Foreign Secretary impose a full arms embargo on Israel and recognise Palestine?
Minister reply
We have imposed a ban on arms sales for use in Gaza—we did that in September. I know that my hon. Friend’s constituents will care a lot about the war in Ukraine and other conflicts across the world, and therefore he will recognise the decision that we have made, particularly about the F-35 supply chain.
Monica Harding
Lib Dem
Esher and Walton
Question
I welcome the Secretary of State’s statement. I also pay tribute to the humanitarian workers in Gaza, who are risking their lives to help the Palestinian people. The very powerful words by our own UN humanitarian chief have already been referenced. He said that 14,000 babies need food within the next 48 hours or they will face starvation. He also said that we have not moved fast enough in the past in the face of other war crimes. Starvation is a weapon of war and it is against humanitarian law. The Secretary of State has said that he will not stand by and that, unless aid gets in, the Government will take consequential action—so how quickly will the Government take action to save the lives of those Palestinian babies?
Minister reply
Four hundred and thirty aid workers have been killed—Gaza is the deadliest place on earth for humanitarians. The hon. Lady is right to recognise those tremendous aid workers. Let me also reference the medical workers and the children who have lost their lives. It is absolutely appalling. We will continue to do all we can to bring this to an end.
Alex Sobel
Lab Co-op
Leeds Central and Headingley
Question
I am sure that we are all absolutely horrified that the Israeli Government are creating a mass starvation event in Gaza. We are seeing the language of a Gaza plan that talks about the “concentration” of the Palestinian people in the south of Gaza, and even works against its own citizens. Nine Israeli citizens have been arrested—including civil society leader Alon-Lee Green, who I hosted in Parliament only last week—and have not yet been released. Does the Foreign Secretary agree that this is a deliberate and systematic attempt to destroy the Palestinian people in Gaza? Is it not time that, instead of sanctioning those taking orders, we sanction those giving the orders in the Israeli Government?
Greg Smith
Con
Mid Buckinghamshire
Question
Is it not vital that we reflect on certain realities regarding the actions of Hamas and condemn them?
Minister reply
I have consistently condemned Hamas for their reprehensible actions, including hostage-taking and misappropriation of aid.
Stella Creasy
Lab/Co-op
Walthamstow
Question
Will the Foreign Secretary consider holding a vote on recognising Palestine?
Minister reply
In our manifesto, we committed to Palestinian recognition in the right circumstances. We are currently reviewing the situation closely.
Jeremy Corbyn
Ind
Islington North
Question
Can you provide details of arms supplied to Israel over the past six months?
Minister reply
We have suspended arms sales that could be used in Gaza, except for F-35 components under strict conditions.
Imran Hussain
Lab
Bradford East
Question
What concrete action can we take against the illegal blockade preventing aid from reaching Palestinians?
Minister reply
Further actions could be taken if the restrictions on aid are not lifted, including potential sanctions.
Winchester
Question
What concrete steps can be taken to address the humanitarian crisis and prevent further loss of life?
Minister reply
The key action is for Netanyahu to halt his course of action. We are working with allies to try to bring an end to the conflict.
Andy McDonald
Lab
Middlesbrough and Thornaby East
Question
Can you confirm whether a determination has been made regarding genocide in Gaza?
Minister reply
We have conducted assessments under the genocide convention, but specific details cannot be disclosed at this time.
Sammy Wilson
DUP
East Antrim
Question
Why are you not more balanced in your condemnation of Hamas' actions?
Minister reply
I have consistently raised the reprehensible behaviour of Hamas on every occasion I have spoken on this matter.
Andy Slaughter
Lab
Hammersmith and Chiswick
Question
Will you impose sanctions on Israeli Ministers and ban trade with illegal settlements?
Minister reply
We keep these issues under review, but specific details cannot be disclosed at this time.
Vikki Slade
LD
Mid Dorset and North Poole
Question
Will you confirm that sanctions on the Israeli Government are being actively explored?
Minister reply
Further action will depend on a cessation of hostilities and an end to restrictions on aid delivery.
Zarah Sultana
Ind
Coventry South
Question
How do you justify the approval of export licences for lethal weapons during this crisis?
Minister reply
We have banned arms sales that could be used in Gaza, and I am not going to be baited on this issue.
Brendan O’Hara
SNP
Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber
Question
Will the Government publish the most recent genocide assessment?
Minister reply
We have conducted assessments under the genocide convention, but specific details cannot be disclosed at this time.
Tahir Ali
Lab
Birmingham Hall Green and Moseley
Question
Welcomed the Foreign Secretary’s statement but highlighted that 14,000 babies will die within 48 hours due to starvation. Questioned whether recognising Palestine is a concrete action the Foreign Secretary can take.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy reiterated his position on recognition and emphasised that the government has increased humanitarian aid, suspended arms sales for use in Gaza, issued sanctions against settlers, and now also suspended a free trade agreement.
Shockat Adam
Ind
Leicester South
Question
Welcomed the Foreign Secretary’s statement cautiously but noted that it came too late for 51,000 Palestinians. Questioned why new rather than existing trade deals were being suspended and inquired about recent partying with Israeli officials.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy insisted on distinguishing between the Israeli people and their government's current direction, emphasising actions such as increased humanitarian aid, sanctions, and diplomatic efforts.
Jon Trickett
Lab
Normanton and Hemsworth
Question
Emphasised that angry rhetoric must be accompanied by forceful action. Asked if the Foreign Secretary will recognise Palestine, stop intelligence-sharing with Israel, and halt supply of war components.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy stated that recognition was part of Labour’s manifesto but noted actions taken such as increasing aid, suspending arms sales, issuing sanctions on settlers, and suspending a free trade agreement.
Lisa Smart
LD
Hazel Grove
Question
Asked if the Government would consider unilaterally recognising Palestine if bilateral or multilateral talks at an upcoming conference do not achieve success.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy noted that recognition is believed to be part of the process and is discussed with partners, but did not commit to unilateral action.
Olivia Blake
Lab
Sheffield Hallam
Question
Asked for steps being taken or planned to prevent 14,000 children’s deaths in Gaza within the next two days and requested urgent measures to ensure access to aid.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy reassured that when the Prime Minister met with Palestinian leaders, the issue of children was raised, indicating ongoing efforts guided by a commitment to their welfare.
Ben Lake
Ind
Ceredigion Preseli Pembrokeshire
Question
Called for urgent action given the need and expressed support for a coalition willing to deliver aid if Israel fails to do so.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy mentioned existing diplomatic efforts with multiple countries, noting that airdrops are not an immediate solution but could be considered if necessary.
Iqbal Mohamed
Ind
Dewsbury and Batley
Question
Welcomed the change in tone from the Foreign Secretary but asked for immediate cessation of all military, economic, and diplomatic support for Israel.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy reiterated opposition to further displacement of Palestinians and commitment to a two-state solution.
Debbie Abrahams
Lab
Oldham East and Saddleworth
Question
Asked about red lines and timeframes for action in light of the imminent risk to 14,000 babies.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy noted ongoing diplomatic efforts through collective measures with international partners.
St Ives
Question
Suggested recognition of Palestinian statehood as a step towards addressing the situation and questioned whether this was being considered.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy discussed ongoing discussions with France on recognising Palestine to affect changes on the ground.
Calder Valley
Question
Asked about the escalation of diplomatic measures against Israeli Government and how these could stop the atrocity.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy mentioned summoning the Israeli ambassador to discuss the issues raised in the House.
Adnan Hussain
Ind
Blackburn
Question
Asked if genocide was occurring and questioned why weapons were still being supplied to Israel.
Minister reply
Mr Lammy did not directly address whether genocide is happening but emphasised diplomatic efforts.
Helen Hayes
Lab
Dulwich and West Norwood
Question
I welcome the Foreign Secretary’s statement today regarding the suspension of trade talks with Israel and further sanctions. However, given the dire situation in Gaza where 14,000 babies are at immediate risk of starvation, what specific timescale does the Government have for meaningful action if the Israeli Government do not change course?
Minister reply
The Prime Minister has indicated that there might be further action required should the Israeli Government continue on their current path. We urge them to step back from their actions and listen to international exhortations.
Minister reply
The Prime Minister has indicated that there might be further action required should the Israeli Government continue on their current path. We urge them to step back from their actions and listen to international exhortations.
Barry Gardiner
Lab
Brent West
Question
Food is a means of life and must not be used as a weapon of war. Minister Smotrich’s proposals are unjustifiable, disproportionate, and in the event that they lead to ethnic cleansing, does my right hon. Friend agree that this would amount to genocide? Will he now sanction Minister Smotrich?
Minister reply
We continue to condemn the extremist language used by the Israeli Government, including references to ‘ethnic cleansing’. The Prime Minister has indicated further action might be necessary.
Jas Athwal
Lab
Ilford South
Question
Given the illegal actions and vile words from the Israeli Government, does my right hon. Friend agree that recognising the state of Palestine is a next step? Will he outline what specific actions will be taken to stop impending deaths by starvation?
Minister reply
The recognition of the State of Palestine is under consideration as part of broader international action necessary to address this crisis.
Joe Powell
Lab
Kensington and Bayswater
Question
With 14,000 babies at immediate risk of starvation, will the Foreign Secretary extend the sanctions regime to political decision makers advocating for ethnic cleansing in Gaza?
Minister reply
All aspects of how our sanctions regime works are under consideration.
Lauren Sullivan
Lab
Gravesham
Question
Given the weaponisation of aid and humanitarian assistance, what additional sanctions will be imposed if Israel continues to withhold essential supplies?
Minister reply
The UK Government stands against the use of food and medical supplies as weapons. We are considering further actions necessary to address this humanitarian crisis.
Harpreet Uppal
Lab
Huddersfield
Question
Given 15,000 children killed and over 93% at critical risk of famine, what steps are being taken to press for the immediate release of Palestinian children held in Israeli-run prisons under conditions that breach international humanitarian law?
Minister reply
We pay particular regard to how detainees are treated under international humanitarian law. We recognise the need to address breaches of human dignity and call for the immediate release of detained children.
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