-
Question
Can you tell us specifically what role the UK Government has played in these negotiations and about their contribution to reaching this agreement?
Minister reply
The UK has been supportive throughout, urging for an immediate ceasefire from day one. We have also provided humanitarian aid and support to Gaza.
-
Question
Can you give assurances that the UK will help Israel in any way possible to support the safe return of hostages?
Minister reply
We are committed to supporting the safe return of hostages and ensuring the agreement is implemented as planned.
-
Question
Will civilians now receive the vital aid that we have been told will get through to bring essential relief to communities across Gaza?
Minister reply
The UK Government is working closely with partners to ensure aid reaches Gaza and helps in reconstruction efforts.
-
Question
The shadow Foreign Secretary asks if the Government has delivered an unambiguous message to the Palestinian leadership and about contributions to reconstruction efforts, fresh discussions on the Abraham accords, and the UK's position towards Iran.
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary emphasises that Qatar, Egypt, and the US were central in bringing about the ceasefire. He mentions the role of Sir Michael Barber in supporting reform within the Palestinian Authority and acknowledges ongoing diplomatic efforts regarding Iran.
-
Question
The Chair of the International Development Committee asks what the Foreign Secretary is doing to urge Israel not to implement legislation that effectively bans UNRWA, which is crucial for aid and stability in Gaza.
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary reiterates his support for UNRWA's role and mentions ongoing discussions with Israeli authorities to prevent the implementation of such legislation.
-
Question
The Liberal Democrat spokesperson expresses gratitude for the ceasefire but criticises the delay in reaching an agreement. He urges the Foreign Secretary to do everything possible to secure the release of hostages and prevent harmful legislation from being implemented.
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary acknowledges the concerns raised and emphasises ongoing efforts to ensure humanitarian assistance reaches Gaza and that further progress is made towards a lasting peace.
-
Question
How can the Foreign Secretary use his influence to persuade the Israeli Government to stop illegal new settlements in the West Bank?
Minister reply
The right hon. Gentleman is correct that expansion undermines the possibility of a two-state solution, and those who try to thwart it must ensure equality for all. The Foreign Secretary discussed these issues with President Abbas and was hopeful about future negotiations.
-
Question
What reassurances can the UK Government give hostage families that their loved ones will be released promptly?
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary confirms the hope for the release of three hostages in the first phase and ongoing work with British hostage families. He acknowledges the uncertainty due to ongoing violence and emphasises the government's commitment.
-
Question
What can be done to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches those who need it and is not misused?
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary stresses the importance of security in delivering aid, highlighting the role of the UN and commercial organisations. There are concerns about gangs accessing aid, so achieving security with Israeli withdrawal and Gulf state confidence for reconstruction efforts remains crucial.
-
Question
What further steps can be taken to work towards a two-state solution?
Minister reply
The government holds out hope for normalizing relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia, emphasising the Palestinian component. The UK will continue to press for this goal alongside President-elect Trump's team.
-
Question
What role can Britain play in ensuring the implementation of the ceasefire deal and preventing future violence?
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary acknowledges the cautious optimism and highlights the importance of securing a two-state solution, emphasising ongoing diplomatic efforts and cooperation with regional partners.
-
Question
The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, with reports of severe shortages of aid supplies. What urgent measures is the Foreign Secretary taking to ensure that lives are ultimately protected and saved?
Minister reply
Half a million people have received essential healthcare as a result of UK funding, and over 600,000 young people have received food due to our efforts. However, there is still much more work to be done to address the immediate needs and long-term reconstruction in Gaza.
-
Question
What are the consequences if either Hamas or Israel reneges on this deal? Can the Secretary of State please elaborate?
Minister reply
The Israeli Cabinet is meeting to approve the deal at a critical moment. It is hoped that they will hear the expectations from President-elect Trump and the House of Commons, and do what is right.
-
Question
When will the Government publish their response to the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice handed down last July?
Minister reply
The issue is being studied in depth by legal minds within the government, and we hope to be able to say more when that process is complete.
-
Question
Can the Foreign Secretary use all diplomatic efforts of His Majesty’s Government to secure agreement from the Israeli Cabinet for an enduring ceasefire and bring the hostages home? What role can our friends and allies in the Gulf states play in rebuilding Gaza?
Minister reply
We will focus on securing the agreement from the Israeli Cabinet, bringing the hostages home, and engaging with Gulf states for reconstruction support and security arrangements.
-
Question
What steps are being taken to negotiate a two-state solution and ensure that East Jerusalem is the capital of Palestine?
Minister reply
A two-state solution is necessary, and we will play our full part in negotiations over the coming days and weeks.
-
Question
What steps are being taken to support the International Court of Justice and the ICC to hold all perpetrators of war crimes accountable?
Minister reply
We have always been clear about the importance of international humanitarian law, determined by international courts. We will never renege on our responsibilities in relation to this.
-
Tahir Ali
Lab
Birmingham Hall Green and Moseley
Question
Can the Foreign Secretary prove that this Government will recognise Palestine as a state during this Parliament?
Minister reply
While we are hopeful about achieving full recognition and two states, it remains uncertain whether this government will formally recognise Palestine in this Parliament.
-
Question
What can be done to ensure that Hamas is eliminated from government in Gaza so the Palestinian Authority can take control and restore peace?
Minister reply
Up to 1,500 prisoners may be released under this deal, including those convicted of terrorist offences. It will weigh heavily on Israelis' hearts that these people are returning to Gaza.
-
Question
Does the Foreign Secretary agree that Palestinians in Gaza must have free movement to return home, including through the reopening of the Rafah crossing?
Minister reply
The Rafah crossing with Egypt will open as part of this deal, allowing 2.3 million displaced civilians to return via a coastal road. This is essential for the reconstruction and humanitarian relief efforts.
-
Question
What tangible steps will the Government take to ensure that Israel sticks to this fragile deal?
Minister reply
The UK Government will continue its diplomatic efforts with Qatar and other nations involved, urging continued adherence to the ceasefire agreement. Diplomacy must achieve success to prevent mass killings of innocent Palestinians.
-
Question
What action is being taken to address illegal settlement expansion in the west bank that undermines a two-state solution?
Minister reply
The UK Government supports reform of the Palestinian Authority, stands by the 1967 borders for achieving a two-state solution, and engages in intense dialogue with Israeli authorities regarding breaches of international law.
-
Question
Can we find lessons from this deal for British foreign policy regarding consequences and accountability?
Minister reply
While the President-elect’s envoy played a critical role, achieving a bipartisan approach earlier might have brought necessary pressure sooner. The ceasefire is fragile but progress must continue.
-
Question
Does my right hon. Friend agree that treating all lives equally—a Palestinian child’s life and an Israeli child’s—is essential for lasting peace in the Middle East?
Minister reply
Reflecting on how we got to this point, the critical thing now is ensuring the ceasefire holds and moving towards a political process that can lead to a two-state solution.
-
Question
Is this an appropriate time for recognising Palestine as part of efforts towards a two-state solution?
Minister reply
A two-state solution is the only path to stable peace; however, recognition alone does not achieve it. The UK understands its role on the UN Security Council in advancing this process appropriately.
-
Question
Will the Foreign Secretary work with Health and Social Care colleagues to offer medical support to urgently needed Palestinian children?
Minister reply
The minister acknowledges the humanitarian need but does not provide a definitive answer within this context.
-
Question
The Israeli Prime Minister has indicated potential delays due to last-minute changes in the deal's terms. Can you provide any clarity on these issues and how the UK will ensure both sides adhere strictly to the agreement?
Minister reply
We have raised those concerns with the Israeli Government, expressing our responsibility to bridge divides for a successful ceasefire. We must maintain pressure on both parties to stick to the agreed terms.
-
Question
There are reports of indefinite incommunicado detention and torture of Palestinians by Israel, violating international humanitarian law. Can you clearly condemn these actions and outline steps to address them?
Minister reply
We have raised issues with the Israeli Government regarding such concerns over humanitarian law and will continue efforts to ensure compliance.
-
Question
While bricks and mortar are crucial for Gaza's reconstruction, what steps will you take to invest in democratic, judicial, and security institutions towards a two-state solution?
Minister reply
The UK has unique capabilities in governance issues and partnerships with Israel, the Palestinian Authority, Arab partners, and the US. We look forward to discussing further steps with the incoming Secretary of State.
-
Question
UNRWA has been alleged to be penetrated by Hamas with hate-propagated curricula in schools. How will you ensure that UNRWA reforms fully address these issues?
Minister reply
We have given £1 million to the UN to assist the implementation of Madame Colonna's plan, and we are reassured that the reform process is ongoing.
-
Question
While you cannot give a timeline today, could you set out criteria for judging when it is right to recognise Palestine?
Minister reply
We must maintain momentum towards two states but cannot provide a timeline due to the complex political landscape.
-
Question
The ICJ has recognised acts of genocide and called for Israeli withdrawal from the West Bank. Will you commit to demanding that all these recommendations are carried out?
Minister reply
We oppose illegal occupation, support two states, and will continue working with civil society on the ground to document violations.
-
Question
What more can be done to ensure that the Israeli ban on UNRWA is lifted so aid can reach Gaza?
Minister reply
We have spoken with the Israeli Government about their legal responsibilities and the importance of humanitarian aid, urging them not to implement this legislation.
-
Question
If Israel does not agree this deal, what will be the consequences for Prime Minister Netanyahu and his Government?
Minister reply
The UK will maintain pressure on both sides to adhere strictly to the terms of the ceasefire agreement.
-
Question
I trust the Government will do all they can to ensure that the ceasefire leads to a lasting peace—a peace based on a two-state solution that addresses the root causes of the violence and creates a future in which the rights and security of people in the region are respected. Will the Foreign Secretary redouble his efforts in urging his counterparts in Israel to grant full access to humanitarian organisations, such as the UN, that are urgently seeking to deliver aid in Gaza, as well as to ensure that journalists have unfettered access to report on the situation?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend is absolutely right; journalists now need to be able to get in and report on what is happening on the ground. I thank him for giving me a moment to call to mind the many aid workers who have died in this conflict—more than in any other conflict in history—and to thank them for their humanitarian efforts.
-
Question
My hon. Friend is absolutely right; journalists now need to be able to get in and report on what is happening on the ground. I thank him for giving me a moment to call to mind the many aid workers who have died in this conflict—more than in any other conflict in history—and to thank them for their humanitarian efforts.
-
Question
I am grateful to the Foreign Secretary for his statement, and I also pay tribute to all those who have helped to bring about this agreement to stop the killing. I pray that Israel accepts and honours the agreement and subsequent stages.
Minister reply
Let me be absolutely clear: we stand opposed to expansion, to the violence that we see, and to any talk of annexation, which would breach international UN resolutions that successive UK Governments have supported.
-
Question
I, too, thank the Foreign Secretary for his statement, particularly his words about how we break out of the cycles of violence, which many of us worry will be replicated in future, and move towards a peaceful future. This is a bitter-sweet deal, in many ways, because the reality is that overnight we have seen Hamas putting their uniforms back on, waving their rifles and celebrating. They are still there.
Minister reply
It is important to continue to remember the tremendous trauma in Israel as a result of 7 October—the worst atrocity for the Jewish people since the Holocaust.
-
Question
I thank the Foreign Secretary for his sombre tone and for his soft but strong words—we all appreciate them. I very much welcome the fact that a ceasefire is imminent and that the hostages will soon be returned home.
Minister reply
I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman, who is always on top of these issues, particularly terrorism, conflict and peace.
-
Question
It has been a long and painful road to get to this point, but today’s welcome news of a ceasefire deal is finally a sliver of hope. I will touch on the point that the Foreign Secretary just made about another generation of politicians, including younger politicians in this House, debating the two-state solution in 25 years’ time.
Minister reply
There is a real dilemma on Palestinian recognition.
-
Question
Yesterday on the streets of Gaza, mothers came out to celebrate the news of the impending peace deal. Today, many of those mothers were crouching over loved ones, as news came in of a further 73 Palestinians having been killed. That is 73 added on to the thousands and thousands who have already been killed.
Minister reply
The Palestinian cause is a just cause, which is why we recommit to two states.
-
Question
I thank my right hon. Friend for his statement. The news of a possible deal is very welcome indeed, and I associate myself with the hopes of colleagues across this House that the hostages will be released and returned, and that humanitarian aid will flood into Gaza as soon as possible.
Minister reply
We absolutely support that, and we will continue to work towards it.
-
Question
Will the Foreign Secretary confirm that the Government will not lift the limited ban on arms sales to Israel until he or another Minister has come back to this House and explained why the danger of those arms being abused has receded?
Minister reply
The ban is in place at this time; arms are not currently being sent to Israel under export licences. Until we get to a secure and stable Gaza, it is unlikely that the ban will be lifted.
-
Question
What diplomatic contributions the UK will make to ensure the ceasefire’s stability when we move towards the latter and more fragile stages of a multi-stage agreement?
Minister reply
The UK continues to support non-governmental organisations and calls for journalists to be allowed in. It is important that appropriate authorities properly document what has happened and that, where necessary, people can be held accountable.
-
Question
What can the Government do to ensure that all journalists in Palestine, including my former colleagues, can do their job without fear for their lives?
Minister reply
It is important that any democracy engaged in conflict of this kind allows journalists to cover what has truly happened. As we head now to this ceasefire and the stability that is required, the time has come for journalists from all corners of the globe to be let in.
-
Question
Will the Foreign Secretary confirm that should Benjamin Netanyahu step on British soil, he would be immediately arrested—yes or no?
Minister reply
We have a legal process in this country where that to come to pass, and that process is important. Ultimately, it will be a decision for our courts.
-
Question
Does the Foreign Secretary agree that what we now need is a flood of aid to stop civilians suffering now in Gaza? Also, I know it is very early days, but what hope does he have for a new normalisation deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia going forward?
Minister reply
It is my sincere hope that we do get a normalisation deal. There are many steps before we get there, but this is a critical moment, and I really hope we can achieve it.
-
Question
Will he ensure that we provide the very best medical support given that many specialties no longer exist in Gaza?
Minister reply
We will continue to support UK-Med, and half a million people have received essential healthcare as a result of our funding.
-
Question
Can I ask the Foreign Secretary what steps are likely to be taken to ensure immediate improvements to healthcare access as a result of this week’s announcement?
Minister reply
Security will be essential if the aid is to get in and if international partners are to be reassured, so that the reconstruction of hospitals can properly begin.
-
Question
What role will the British Government play in creating the conditions that mean a two-state solution is finally in reach and we could declare that we recognise the state of Palestine?
Minister reply
The UK has a particular role to play because of our relationship with all the parties, and our unique role on the United Nations Security Council alongside France.
-
Question
Can I please ask the Foreign Secretary what discussions are taking place right now to help facilitate that access for important materials?
Minister reply
The World Bank has been doing a lot of thinking about that, with a rapid needs assessment of the materials that are now necessary.
-
Question
Can he update us on the funding for the UN humanitarian appeals, whether we are considering an uplift in our aid, and what pressure we are putting on other UN member states to make sure they play their role?
Minister reply
The UK continues to support non-governmental organisations and calls for journalists to be allowed in.
-
Question
Will the Secretary of State redouble his efforts to seek justice for a constituent murdered by IDF last April while working for World Central Kitchen? Will he meet me to discuss what the UK Government can do?
Minister reply
I raised this issue with the Israeli Foreign Minister and will continue pressing for accountability. The Military Advocate General in Israel must initiate the process. I or my ministerial colleagues are willing to meet his constituents.
-
Question
Does the UK plan a further aid package for Gaza, following EU's €120 million in new aid? What role will the UK play in ensuring civilians return home safely?
Minister reply
We will assess humanitarian needs and make further decisions about aid provision over the coming weeks. Coordinating with partners like the EU is crucial to ensure stability.
-
Question
Should British companies and NGOs be at the forefront of rebuilding Gaza? What role can the UK play in facilitating this process?
Minister reply
Agrees that British companies and NGOs should lead reconstruction efforts. More information on support will help secure peace.
-
Question
How can the UK's experience in brokering peace in Northern Ireland through the Good Friday agreement be used to achieve a two-state solution for Palestine and Israel?
Minister reply
The National Security Adviser is Jonathan Powell, who played an important role in the Good Friday agreement. This experience will help guide future peace efforts.
-
Question
What are the next steps towards ensuring a two-state solution with Israel and Palestine living side by side?
Minister reply
Two possibilities exist: continued fighting without reconstruction, or achieving stability leading to peace and normalisation of relations.
-
Question
Does the Government’s commitment to a two-state solution include Gaza as part of a future Palestinian state?
Minister reply
Gaza must be included in any future Palestinian state, with no reduction in its territory or ongoing occupation.
-
Question
Can the Foreign Secretary assure hostages' families that he will press for their loved ones’ release at each stage of the deal?
Minister reply
Emily Damari, Avinatan Or, Oded Lifschitz, and Eli Sharabi are being closely monitored. Pressing for their release is a priority.
-
Question
What steps is the FCO taking to support human rights groups in rebuilding Gaza?
Minister reply
Continuing funding for important organisations that advocate for vulnerable people's rights and dignity.
-
Question
What reassurance can the Government provide about leading towards a two-state solution after this deal?
Minister reply
The UK will work tirelessly to achieve peace, drawing on experiences from Northern Ireland and South Africa. We must uphold humanitarian law and respect for both sides.