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Question
The MP expressed deep concern over ongoing Israeli attacks on Palestinian civilians, including strikes on hospitals like al-Aqsa hospital. He cited alarming statistics about civilian casualties in Gaza and Lebanon, urging the Government to consider individual sanctions against far-right Israeli ministers and extend arms embargoes. He also suggested discussing with the US to remove Israel from F-35 supply chains for humanitarian reasons.
Minister reply
The Minister acknowledged the severity of reported attacks on civilians and UN peacekeepers, confirming that all reports are taken seriously by the Government. She reaffirmed the UK’s position in condemning such attacks alongside international allies. Regarding Palestinian statehood, she stated that it is essential to long-term security with a two-state solution at its heart.
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Question
The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, with over 90% of the population displaced and facing famine. The UK must continue to provide aid and support for hostages like Emily Damari. In Lebanon, British nationals are urged to leave due to ongoing issues such as Hezbollah's mobilization south of the Litani river and firing rockets into northern Israel. What steps is the Government taking with the UN to secure implementation of resolution 1701?
Minister reply
The situation in Gaza is indeed desperate; aid delivery remains a priority despite challenges. The UK continues to support hostages' families and raise their cases internationally. In Lebanon, we urge British citizens to leave due to security risks. Regarding Resolution 1701, the UK supports it and advocates for its implementation.
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Question
UN peacekeepers in Lebanon face attacks by Hezbollah; is there a possibility to increase UK's contribution to UNIFIL beyond our current one peacekeeper?
Minister reply
The UK supports the crucial role of UNIFIL in southern Lebanon. We review our support for all UN agencies, including UNIFIL, continuously and will consider any opportunities to contribute more.
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Question
UK aid cuts since 2019; will the Government increase aid supplies and use sanctions against extremist Ministers in Israel? Also, will they proscribe Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps?
Minister reply
The UK condemns attacks on UNIFIL peacekeepers. We support pre-positioned aid and have provided additional funding to address humanitarian needs in Lebanon and Gaza. We review our sanctions regime closely.
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Question
What specific actions is the Government taking to prevent a 'surrender or starve' strategy being implemented against Palestinians in northern Gaza?
Minister reply
The UK Government has engaged at every level with counterparts and international bodies, including reviewing arms export licences. We support ceasefires and play our part in addressing the humanitarian crisis.
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Question
Does yet another massacre of Gazans enhance Israel's security? If not, when will the Government take active steps to enforce international law and bring about a ceasefire?
Minister reply
The UK supports international humanitarian law. We have supported the mandate of the International Criminal Court and reviewed arms export licences. The new Government is committed to showing leadership in upholding these laws.
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Question
The MP asked whether the UK Government's legal teams have made similar assessments to those of the UN regarding Israel's actions in Gaza and what further steps are being taken by the government to protect international law, human rights and life itself in Gaza.
Minister reply
Dodds mentioned that £5.5 million has been allocated for medical aid through UK-Med’s field hospitals in Gaza and highlighted efforts to support vulnerable families via UNICEF. She emphasised the importance of ensuring compliance with international humanitarian law.
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Question
Moran inquired about the UK Government's stance on Israel's treatment of Palestinians, particularly those who have stayed behind to care for the elderly and sick. She also asked if sanctions would be imposed on Netanyahu.
Minister reply
Dodds stated that more than 85% of Gaza is under evacuation orders, causing overcrowding. The Minister stressed the need for Israel to avoid civilian casualties and permit humanitarian aid through all routes.
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Question
Burgon criticised Israel's actions as war crimes and called for sanctions similar to those imposed on Russia after its invasion of Ukraine.
Minister reply
Dodds confirmed that the UK Government is closely examining reports, including footage showing severe human rights abuses. She noted that eight individuals have already been sanctioned for perpetrating or inciting abuses against Palestinians in the West Bank.
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Question
O'Hara questioned if bombing hospitals constitutes war crimes.
Minister reply
Dodds affirmed that the UK Government are carefully examining all reports. She stated that footage of such incidents is disturbing and requires proper assessment in accordance with international legal standards.
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Question
Roca urged for an urgent ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, emphasising the need to uphold international law.
Minister reply
Dodds agreed on the urgency of a ceasefire. She highlighted that the UK Government were among the first G7 members to call for a cessation of hostilities in Lebanon.
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Question
Shelbrooke questioned whether the UK would demand Israel cease fire when responding to Iran’s provocations, asking for more engagement with regional partners.
Minister reply
Dodds stated that the new Government is actively engaging with countries in the region to promote de-escalation.
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Question
Smith asked if airdropping aid into northern Gaza could be considered due to the dire humanitarian situation.
Minister reply
Dodds acknowledged the challenges of airdrops but emphasised the importance of land routes for effective aid delivery.
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Question
Campbell urged unity in international opinion to secure hostage release and address the terrorist threat against Israelis.
Minister reply
Dodds affirmed that the UK Government is working globally and with regional countries for de-escalation and protection of civilians.
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Question
De Cordova raised concerns over settler violence in the West Bank, asking about potential sanctions.
Minister reply
Dodds confirmed that the UK Government strongly condemn settler violence and urged Israel to hold violent settlers accountable.
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Question
Smith inquired about discussions with Israeli counterparts regarding Hezbollah's rearmament in Lebanon.
Minister reply
Dodds highlighted the UK’s condemnation of Hezbollah attacks and its efforts to promote diplomatic resolution through US-led talks.
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Question
Hussain emphasised the need for concrete steps against Israel's violations of international law, including immediate sanctions.
Minister reply
Dodds confirmed that 30 export licences to Israel have been suspended following a review of its compliance with international humanitarian law.
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Question
We all want the killings to stop, we abhor the deaths, and we all want a ceasefire as soon as possible. The western nations have failed to convince Hamas and Hezbollah to stop attacking Israel with missiles. Therefore, Israel has concluded that the fastest way to defend itself is to destroy these terror organisations.
Minister reply
The UK Government's position is clear: an immediate ceasefire, hostage release, humanitarian aid into Gaza, and ultimately a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians.
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Question
The situation in Gaza requires more than just words. Is it not time to start talking with international allies about forcing Israel to allow aid into Gaza and calling a ceasefire?
Minister reply
The UK has gone beyond words, providing core relief items such as shelter kits, wound care kits, and medicine.
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Question
Western diplomatic strategy is not working; something else needs to be tried. Otherwise, the deaths will continue.
Minister reply
The UK Government condemn Iran’s attack against Israel and demand immediate de-escalation.
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Question
Does the Minister agree that a two-state solution is necessary for sustainable peace?
Minister reply
The UK Government support the realisation of a two-state solution for both Israelis and Palestinians.
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Question
Given UN Security Council resolution 1701’s failure, what should Israel do when facing incessant attacks by a terrorist organisation backed by a state?
Minister reply
The UK fully supports UNIFIL's work in southern Lebanon as mandated by the UN Security Council.
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Question
Will the Government end arms sales to Israel due to inconsistent application of international law?
Minister reply
The UK respects the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court, and has suspended about 30 arms export licences to Israel.
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Question
Why does the UK still supply weapons to Israel despite condemning their actions?
Minister reply
We have been clear on avoiding civilian casualties and allowing aid into Gaza. The UK has taken decisions in respect of the arms export regime.
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Question
How will the UK Government hold Israel to account for actions that constitute war crimes?
Minister reply
The UK looks carefully at reports suggesting a breaking of international humanitarian law, especially regarding healthcare workers.
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Question
Will the Minister ensure no British troops are deployed to supplement UNIFIL until there is peace to keep?
Minister reply
The UK seeks de-escalation through diplomatic channels and humanitarian efforts, not troop deployment.
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Question
Will the Minister demonstrate explicit support for UNRWA given three Bills in the Israeli Knesset to outlaw it?
Minister reply
The UK supports UNRWA, whose role is critical. The Government have supported the Colonna review and implementation.
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Question
The far-right Netanyahu Government continue to assert that they are complying with international law, when in fact they are acting without restraint. That is clear from the atrocities in northern Gaza, the Israeli settlement in the west bank, and completely inadequate evacuation orders issued to densely populated suburbs in Beirut. Will the Minister recognise that the UK is complicit in these war crimes due to the UK Government’s continued refusal to stop all arms sales to Israel?
Minister reply
I regret the way in which the hon. Member phrased that question. I believe that the UK Government did exactly what they needed to do, legally and constitutionally, in ensuring that there was a proper review operating, with the requirement of international humanitarian law being taken seriously. That led to the decision to suspend 30 arms export licences, and it showed a Government taking those responsibilities seriously, which we will continue to do.
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Question
The UN has confirmed that it has not been able to deliver food aid to northern Gaza since 1 October, which means that for two weeks, no food, no water and no aid has reached the region. We now hear reports that Netanyahu has a “surrender or starve” plan, which, if carried out, will leave hundreds of thousands of Palestinians without the essentials. International humanitarian law prohibits the starvation of civilians as a method of warfare. Does the Minister agree that this is totally inexcusable, and that Israel must stop using starvation as a weapon of war? Will she provide an update on the efforts that we will make to ensure that the situation does not continue, and will she assure the House that we will not sit by and watch Palestinians starve to death?
Minister reply
The UK Government have been absolutely clear about our concern for the very large numbers of people in northern Gaza who are in extreme need. We are concerned about the fact that the entire population of Gaza are now at risk of starvation, but the situation is particularly intense for those in northern Gaza. My hon. Friend is right in saying that, disturbingly, it appears that there has been no access since 1 October, as there should have been. We have been clear that Israel must stand by its commitment to flood Gaza with aid, and we continue to push for that at every opportunity.
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Question
I fully appreciate what the Minister says about the engagement of the Government in standing up for international law, but, with respect, it has been a year now, and every time we come here we hear the same thing: that the situation has got worse. The entire region is living in fear, and the death toll is unimaginable. Have we not reached the point where we must accept that continually saying “This has to change” is not enough? We need to hear from the Government what actions will actually be taken to convince both sides that we need a ceasefire and we need the humanitarian aid. Ninety-seven hostages have been in captivity for a year, and we need more than engagement and reminders of their plight; so what are the Government going to do?
Minister reply
The new UK Government have made it absolutely clear that when it comes to international humanitarian law, the jurisdiction of both the ICC and the ICJ is paramount. It is legitimate, and we have been explicit about that. We have called repeatedly for a ceasefire, and we believe that bilateral and multilateral engagement are very important. The UK should be seeking to exercise leadership in a move towards de-escalation in the region, but, on top of that, we have of course sought to fulfil our responsibilities in respect of provision of the humanitarian aid that is so desperately needed by people there.
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Question
I have been heartened to hear the Minister’s call for a ceasefire in Lebanon and Gaza. Can she assure me and my constituents that we are evaluating and exhausting every available diplomatic effort not only to secure that ceasefire, but to get much-needed aid into those regions?
Minister reply
Yes, I absolutely can. The UK Government take our responsibility incredibly seriously. We worked very hard to ensure that we were the first country in the G7 to call for a ceasefire in Lebanon. We have worked very hard to encourage other countries to do the same, and we have consistently been calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza as well. That must be followed by the surge of aid needed, but before that, we need to make sure that there is no blockage of aid into Gaza and that people in Lebanon are adequately provided for as well.
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Question
I strongly endorse the words of the hon. Member for Middlesbrough and Thornaby East (Andy McDonald). I note that the Minister perpetually uses the word “condemn” when she refers to Israel’s actions, yet last week the Prime Minister came to this House and said that he stands with the far-right Israeli Government. They are one of the most powerful and sophisticated military powers on the planet, yet only weeks ago we used our military to help defend Israel. Where is the equivalent action to defend the innocent people of Gaza and Lebanon? It simply cannot carry on like this. Surely the Government must stop pretending that they are bipartisan in this matter.
Minister reply
I must admit that I find some of the hon. Gentleman’s comments rather difficult to understand. The Prime Minister could not have been clearer in stating that Israel has the right to defend itself; it absolutely does have that right. Israel is a democratic nation, and it is important that democratic nations have that right. However, it is of course important that international humanitarian law is adhered to, and I believe that this Government have demonstrated our commitment to that principle in the actions we have taken, including those of the Prime Minister, the Foreign Secretary, me and others since our election.
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Question
Last night the Attorney General, who was giving the 2024 Bingham lecture, made a powerful case for the UK resuming its leading role in promoting international law after 14 years of back-pedalling. Nowhere is that role more needed than in Gaza and Lebanon, so what further steps will the Government take to stop the barbaric killing of civilians by Israeli forces operating in the Occupied Palestinian Territories and Lebanon, with no pretence of following humanitarian law?
Minister reply
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for those important points. I had the privilege of hearing the Attorney General restate the UK’s commitment to international humanitarian law at an event commemorating the foundation of the Geneva conventions, and this is an important time for us to reflect on their importance, given that it is many decades since they were introduced out of the rubble of the second world war. We have a clear commitment, and it must apply without fear or favour.
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Question
The humanitarian crisis in the middle east is another example of how the previous Government’s cuts to the aid budget have left us responding to crises with one hand tied behind our back. Since 2019, official development assistance spending in Lebanon has fallen from over £200 million to just £7 million. Will the Minister look at replenishing that fund?
Minister reply
I share the hon. Lady’s concern about the impacts of the previous Government’s approach to financing overseas development. During a turbulent period, we saw in-donor refugee costs spiral out of control and eat up parts of the aid budget, which I have been very concerned about, and the Government are determined to deal with the situation.
When it comes to support for Lebanon, we are determined to do what we can with other countries and international organisations to support those in need. That has led to the announcement of £5 million for UNICEF, which was an early announcement to make sure that we were pre-positioning the support that, unfortunately, has now become necessary. In addition to that, we have announced £10 million for Lebanon to respond to the lack of shelter and reduced access to clean water, hygiene and healthcare.
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Question
I understand that the Minister is in a very difficult position, and I also understand that a huge amount of work is going on behind the scenes to try to make progress in getting towards a ceasefire. However, she has heard Members of different parties say that the current action is not enough. The consistent, egregious breaches of international law by a supposed ally cannot be allowed to continue unfettered. We have to have a more detailed response from the UK and its allies, as we did when there were breaches of international law against UNIFIL. Will the Minister commit to coming back to this House with a statement on what actions will be taken to send a clear message to Israel that it is engaging in unacceptable behaviour?
Minister reply
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for making those points. Regardless of which Benches Members sit on, I do not think there will be anyone in this House who is not deeply concerned about the situation impacting on people in Gaza—particularly northern Gaza—and Lebanon. Of course, we are now seeing the conflict impact on people who fled from Syria to Lebanon, so this is a very dire situation. The UK Government will do all that we can to de-escalate and to secure the ceasefires that are so desperately needed, and we would be more than happy to come back to the House to discuss these matters and our activity.
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Question
I thank the Minister for her answers, and for the confidence that she clearly shows. Does she agree that the presence of tunnels within proximity of UN facilities is concerning? It is an indication that the type of underground facilities prevalent in Gaza are being used in Lebanon, and it is a clear indication of the scale of the Hamas and Hezbollah terrorists’ reach. We need to deal with the reach of terrorism. Rather than berate Israel, we should support Israel to eradicate all terrorism in the region.
Minister reply
I am grateful to the hon. Member for his question, and for his kind words. The UK Government are clear that it is wrong to use civilians in that manner, and it is really important that civilians are protected. We have seen an appalling number of civilians being killed.
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Question
Why do the Government allow Israeli diplomats who advocate for a 'Greater Israel' and oppose a Palestinian state to remain in the UK, contrary to United Nations resolutions?
Minister reply
I know that the right hon. Gentleman will be well aware of particular rules applying to diplomatic representation. The UK Government’s position is that diplomacy is incredibly important given the gravity of the situation affecting Gaza and Lebanon.
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Question
Given the disproportionate scale of killing, will the Minister please acknowledge sentiment that the Government are not doing enough and commit to suspending all arms sales to Israel?
Minister reply
I am grateful to the hon. Member for his question. In the spirit of constructive engagement, I would appreciate any clear suggestions for action.
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Question
Will the Minister clearly state that accurate reporting of the deaths of thousands of children in Gaza and humanising those lives cut short by IDF actions is a critical part of free media work?
Minister reply
Accurate reporting is critical. We are seeing large numbers of images and pieces of footage circulating that are incredibly disturbing, and perhaps for the first time our constituents are able to access this wherever they are.
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Question
If Israel continues intimidating UN peacekeepers, including 380 Irish soldiers, when will the UK use arms trade and official sanctions against it?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend rightly points out the critical role of peacekeepers, and we recognise that this includes Irish nationals as well as nationals from a number of other countries.
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Question
What concrete new action are the Government taking to stop Israel forcibly transferring populations in northern Gaza?
Minister reply
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for raising this important issue. The UK Government have been clear that we will recognise a Palestinian state as a contribution to a peace process at a time that is most conducive to the long-term prospects for peace.
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Question
When will the UK Government follow other European Governments in recognising an independent Palestinian state?
Minister reply
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for raising this important issue. The UK Government are crystal clear here.
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Question
What has the Minister done with preparatory work to sanction two members of the Israeli Government, and is she looking at sanctions for Israel’s Prime Minister?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend rightly raises the issue of sanctions. I have referred previously in this urgent question to the fact that the UK Government have sanctioned those who have been promoting illegal and violent actions by settlers.
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Question
Does the Minister agree that securing an urgent ceasefire is a vital first step towards lasting peace in the region?
Minister reply
Absolutely, and the UK Government will continue to advocate very strongly indeed for that, in relation to Gaza and Lebanon.
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Question
Will the Minister condemn IDF attacks on UNIFIL in Lebanon and outline what action is being taken to improve their safety?
Minister reply
I absolutely will join my hon. Friend in condemning any inappropriate attacks on UN agencies of any type.
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Tahir Ali
Lab
Birmingham Hall Green and Moseley
Question
What action will the Government take to stop Israel abusing human rights and committing war crimes?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend rightly mentions the UN’s role within this.
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Question
What will the Government do to protect health workers as the conflict escalates and will they consider sanctions in relation to these flagrant violations of international law?
Minister reply
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for mentioning the situation of healthcare workers.