Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministerial Statement

Lebanon

30 July 2024 · 16 other contributors

Opened by David Lammy Lab Tottenham

UkraineForeign Affairs

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

David Lammy raised concerns about lebanon in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Hezbollah launched rockets into northern Israel and the occupied Golan Heights on 27 July
  • The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 12 civilians including young people
  • More than 40 people have been killed and tens of thousands displaced by subsequent Hezbollah strikes

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Government Statement

David Lammy

On 27 July, Hezbollah launched a series of rockets into northern Israel and the occupied Golan Heights. The Government condemn this attack, which has resulted in the deaths of at least 12 civilians including young people playing football. More than 40 people have been killed by Hezbollah strikes since then, with tens of thousands displaced from affected areas. I spoke to Lebanese Prime Minister Mikati twice and visited Israel to discuss the situation with Prime Minister Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Katz. The UK supports Israel’s right to defend itself according to international humanitarian law but continues to press for a diplomatic solution based on UN Security Council resolution 1701, which calls for disarmament of armed groups in Lebanon and no foreign forces without the Government's consent. We are urging de-escalation by all parties involved, including Hezbollah, and have provided more training and equipment to Lebanese border regiments. The risk of further escalation is rising; therefore, we advise British nationals against travel to Israel’s north and Golan Heights and Lebanon due to frequent artillery exchanges and airstrikes. A ceasefire in Gaza would alleviate suffering and reduce tensions across the region. We remain committed to playing a full diplomatic role in securing peace between Israel and Palestinians.

Other contributors (16)
  • Andrew Mitchell Con Sutton Coldfield

    Question

    What steps is the Foreign Secretary taking to amplify advice for British nationals in Lebanon to leave now? What is he doing to provide information on how to leave and look after interests of staff in-country?

    Minister reply

    The Government are working intensively with partners to encourage de-escalation. We advise against all travel to north Israel, Golan Heights, and Lebanon due to high tensions. The Foreign Secretary chairs Cobra meetings regularly, ensuring readiness for evacuations if necessary.

  • Andrew Mitchell Con Sutton Coldfield

    Question

    Does the Foreign Secretary have an estimate of how many Brits are in Lebanon? What discussions has he had with key partners to avoid escalation?

    Minister reply

    We do not disclose specific numbers but advise all British nationals in Lebanon to leave immediately. The Government is engaged with regional partners including the United States and France, urging de-escalation and dialogue.

  • Andrew Mitchell Con Sutton Coldfield

    Question

    What discussions has he had with key partners on avoiding escalation?

    Minister reply

    We are in close contact with regional allies including the US and France to prevent conflict. We support diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire in Gaza, which would help reduce tensions along the blue line.

  • Andrew Mitchell Con Sutton Coldfield

    Question

    Thanked the Foreign Secretary for his statement and expressed concern over the attack in Golan Heights, stressing that Hezbollah must cease attacks immediately. He asked about steps taken to advise British nationals in Lebanon to leave now, efforts made to communicate this advice, and discussions with regional partners.

    Minister reply

    Reassured Mitchell about the ongoing communication of advice for UK nationals in Lebanon to leave through various channels. Mentioned an estimated 16,000 UK nationals are in the region and urged people to register their presence. Stated that Lebanon's Prime Minister was informed and the government is working with international partners.

  • Derek Twigg Lab Widnes and Halewood

    Question

    Asked about an assessment of how successful efforts have been in countering Iranian threats.

    Minister reply

    Stated that Iran continues to destabilize the Middle East through support for its proxies. Emphasised ongoing work with international partners to encourage de-escalation and long-term peace.

  • Richard Foord Lib Dem Honiton and Sidmouth

    Question

    Welcomed the Foreign Secretary’s statement, urging the UK Government to engage closely with regional powers for de-escalation. Asked if colleagues have engaged with the UN special co-ordinator.

    Minister reply

    Reassured Foord that engagement has taken place and will continue with the UN special envoy, Amos Hochstein.

  • David Pinto-Duschinsky Lab Hendon

    Question

    Asked about steps to put maximum pressure on Hezbollah to cease rocket attacks.

    Minister reply

    Emphasised a no-contact policy with Hezbollah but noted that the UK continues to speak closely with regional partners regarding destabilizing activities.

  • John Hayes Con South Holland and The Deepings

    Question

    Welcomed Lammy's statement and expressed willingness for him to meet members of an all-party group on Lebanon to discuss further support.

    Minister reply

    Agreed to meet the group, emphasising cross-party cooperation in addressing serious issues.

  • Clive Betts Lab Sheffield South East

    Question

    Welcomes the statement on de-escalation and ceasefire in Gaza, asks how to deal with Israeli Prime Minister's comments about Samaria and Judea being integral parts of Israel, and suggests recognising a Palestinian state.

    Minister reply

    Acknowledges concerns about expansion in the West Bank, expresses horror at recent developments, and confirms that issues were raised with both the Israeli Prime Minister and President.

  • Brendan O'Hara SNP Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber

    Question

    Expresses concern about Israel's actions in Gaza after Hamas attacks, asks what discussions have been had with Israel and international partners to distinguish between self-defence and revenge under international law.

    Minister reply

    Reiterates that Israel has a right to defend itself but within the limits of international humanitarian law; confirms that issues related to civilian casualties and restrictions on journalists were raised.

  • Kim Johnson Lab Liverpool Riverside

    Question

    Raises issue of water scarcity in Gaza, noting 4.7 litres per person per day, asks for more action from the UK.

    Minister reply

    Agrees that access to water is a serious issue, highlights actions taken by the government including restoring aid to UNRWA and increasing funds available to UK-Med.

  • Mike Tapp Lab Dover and Deal

    Question

    Acknowledges calls for de-escalation but raises concerns about arms supply from Iran to Hamas, Hezbollah, and Houthis.

    Minister reply

    Agrees that support of these groups by Iran contributes to regional conflict, confirms sanctions are under review.

  • Jeremy Corbyn Ind Islington North

    Question

    Calls for UK Government to accept the illegal nature of occupation in West Bank and Golan Heights based on International Court of Justice opinions.

    Minister reply

    Confirms recognition of the illegal nature of Israeli occupation in Golan Heights, endorses a two-state solution as desired by all parties.

  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Question

    Concerned about attack at Majdal Shams football pitch resulting in 12 fatalities; asks what steps will be taken to hold perpetrators accountable and assist Israel.

    Minister reply

    Acknowledges terror attacks, updates on travel advice for northern Israel, continues partnership work with Israel.

  • Mike Martin Lib Dem Tunbridge Wells

    Question

    Asks if the UK will recognise Palestinian state if illegal settlements continue to expand.

    Minister reply

    Acknowledges concerns about settlement expansion and importance of recognition for peace; suggests bringing these issues together is not diplomatically viable.

Shadow Comment

Andrew Mitchell

The tragic attack on civilians in the Golan Heights must be condemned unequivocally. We urge Hezbollah to cease its attacks immediately, with Iran also using its influence to rein in proxies destabilising the Middle East. Beyond stern words, we should use sanctions and other tools to disrupt malign behaviour by Iran and its proxies like Hezbollah. The Foreign Secretary needs to amplify advice for British nationals to leave Lebanon now and provide clear information on how to do so. He must also ensure the safety of Foreign Office staff in Lebanon. We need an estimate of Brits in Lebanon and discussions with key regional partners to avoid escalation. Maximum pressure should be put on Hamas, while maintaining close dialogue with Israel to urge restraint and support peace efforts.

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