House of Commons · General Debate
06 May 2025 · 42 other contributors
Opened by Hamish Falconer Lab Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Hamish Falconer raised concerns about middle east update 2025-05-06 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
The Government strongly oppose the expansion of Israel’s military operations in Gaza, insisting that Palestinian territory must not be reduced or subjected to any demographic change. The Minister called for an immediate ceasefire, release of all hostages, urgent humanitarian aid provision, and a pathway to a political solution. He reiterated that Hamas cannot be defeated through military means alone and emphasised the importance of diplomacy over further bloodshed.
The shadow Foreign Minister questioned the Government's strategy regarding Iran, asserting that it poses a significant threat to peace in the Middle East. She also raised concerns about the UK’s approach towards lifting sanctions on Syria and its coordination with international allies. Additionally, she asked for an update on the situation in Lebanon, including adherence to UN Security Council resolution 1701.
Agrees with Minister's condemnation of Israel’s actions in Gaza and calls for rapid recognition of a Palestinian state and consideration of sanctions against Israel.
Condemns the Israeli Government’s decision to approve plans for an expanded offensive, describes it as ‘disgraceful’ and questions whether seizing Gaza would be a breach of international law. Also asks about aid blockades and measures being considered by the government.
Calls for an end to Israel’s impunity, demanding sanctions on Israeli Ministers, application of full arms embargo, ban on settlement goods, and recognition of Palestine.
Questions the Government's commitment to recognising a Palestinian state and urges immediate recognition.
Denounces Israel for committing war crimes, demands widespread sanctions on Israel similar to those imposed on Russia.
Asks about dialogue with Egypt in resolving the conflict in Gaza.
Calls for full immediate unimpeded delivery of aid, insists that Israel ensures aid is distributed according to UN humanitarian principles by international agencies.
Defends the Labour party's record on arms and sanctions, calls for the courts to handle questions of law instead of making determinations himself. Emphasises the need for negotiations and condemnation of the Houthi attack.
Expresses concern over ongoing conflict in Gaza, calls on the Minister to condemn the Houthi attack and advocate for aid into Gaza and hostage release.
Critiques the Government's policy as a failure that may lead to catastrophic consequences, demands a change in strategy towards peace.
Questions the Minister about meaningful action against breaches of international law by Israel, proposes further sanctions and condemnation.
Inquires how British Government policy will change in response to the Israeli plan for Gaza.
Describes unacceptable behaviour from the Israeli Government and demands recognition of Palestine, sanctions on goods made in illegal settlements, and action against further displacement.
Calls for a full arms embargo on Israel and sanctions on Smotrich and Ben-Gvir, urging immediate steps to recognise Palestine.
Requests the UK Government to take immediate steps in recognising the state of Palestine before it is too late for Gaza.
Questions whether Israel's actions constitute genocide and asks about the risk assessments made by the Minister regarding humanitarian aid blockades.
Ms Qureshi accused Israel of committing cold-blooded murder in Gaza, including targeting medics, civilians, UN staff, and aid workers. She also highlighted the presence of illegal settlers in the West Bank.
Mr Corbyn stated that 100,000 tonnes of bombs have been dropped on Gaza, equating to five times the power used at Hiroshima and Nagasaki. He called for the cessation of arms supplies and military cooperation with Israel.
Mr Waugh urged the Government to recognise Palestine, arguing that this would be a practical step towards moving the peace process forward. He highlighted Hamas's role in endangering the state of Israel.
Dr Murrison asked about plans to deal with Hamas and achieve sustainable peace in the region without them posing a threat. He emphasised removing Hamas from Gaza.
Mr Dhesi condemned far-right Israeli Ministers for advocating the destruction of Gaza and forcing Palestinians to flee. He urged the Minister to condemn such proposals and take steps to prevent forced displacement.
Ms Slade called on the Government to recognise genocide and apartheid against Palestine, echoing statements from Ireland and South Africa. She urged speaking up for Palestinian rights.
Mr Khan highlighted forced displacement of Palestinians in Gaza as a war crime under international law. He asked what steps would be taken to prevent this from happening.
Mr Lake suggested resurrecting negotiations for airdrops of humanitarian aid due to the ongoing blockade by Israel, despite the UK Government's stance on providing aid under international law.
Ms Hopkins described Israeli plans to expand military operations in Gaza as unacceptable. She urged recognition of Palestine as a state imperative for lasting peace.
Mr Law quoted an Israeli Minister’s statement about destroying Gaza and emphasised the need for British intelligence services to have been aware of such plans. He questioned why warnings were ignored by the Government.
Dillon urges the Government to recognise the Palestinian state, ensure hostage return, stop killing of innocent Palestinians, and take action to prevent a new refugee crisis.
Morden thanks the Minister for his update and joins others in calling for recognition. She asks about diplomatic efforts towards a ceasefire and meaningful action to address the situation.
Hussain raises concerns over forced displacement of Palestinians due to Israeli actions, urging the Government to take concrete steps rather than mere condemnation.
Byrne urges the Minister to act beyond words and condemnation, emphasising that the situation involves starvation as a weapon of war and ethnic cleansing, with historical judgment in mind for failing Palestinians.
Shannon asks about talks with Israel allies to ensure independent third-party access for aid distribution while safeguarding Israeli safety.
Yasin calls for the UK Government to recognise Palestine at a United Nations conference, alongside France, to support a two-state solution.
Pearce highlights opposition figures in Israel advocating for ceasefire and removal of Hamas, urging the Minister to agree with their points.
Collinge urges consideration for further sanctions and measurable action, given ongoing horrors from Israeli Government statements.
Paffey presses the Minister on concrete steps towards a ceasefire despite Hamas's disregard for international law, and calls for recognition of Palestine as an undeniable right.
Kumaran questions FCDO officials' reasoning against escalating sanctions on Israel, urging significant action given the severity of crimes committed.
It is crucial that there is recognition of the Palestinian state and that the Palestinian people are represented as equals at the negotiating table. Given what has gone on in the region recently, Israel must immediately lift all restrictions on aid and allow unfettered access to humanitarian assistance in Gaza.
The Palestinian people have a right to determine the future of their country. What specific action will the Minister take on the proposed indefinite occupation by Israel of Gaza? It risks eroding the sovereignty of the Palestinian people, sets an extreme precedent in international law, and ultimately jeopardises any path to a lasting peace.
It has now been more than two months since Israel blocked food and aid getting into Gaza. Aid agencies tell us that 95% of their work has been stopped or drastically reduced because of the blockade. I welcome the Minister’s comments condemning these appalling actions, but we are now facing a total collapse of the aid system in Gaza.
The Government are right to strongly oppose the Israeli Government’s plan to expand military action, which is unconscionable. Does the Minister agree that what should be expanded is the provision of humanitarian aid, and that what should be intensified are negotiations and diplomatic pressure on all parties to bring about a ceasefire, a return of hostages and a credible peace process that results in two sovereign states?
Gaza has had aid blocked for two months. Netanyahu said that the population may be moved for their own safety—safety from whom? Can the Minister explain what further diplomatic consequences Israel will face if it continues down this road?
Government Response
The Government strongly oppose the expansion of Israel’s military operations in Gaza. The Minister expressed concern over Iran's influence and condemned Houthi missile attacks on Ben Gurion airport. Offers updates on diplomatic efforts and sanctions in response to Israeli actions. Reiterates the Government's commitment to a ceasefire, working with allies to secure it, and maintaining legal positions regarding aid provision and occupation responsibilities. Defends the Labour party’s record on arms and sanctions, refuses to make legal determinations, supports negotiations, condemns the Houthi attack, expresses concern over aid not reaching Gaza, and reiterates that the movement of Gazan population out of Gaza would be forcible displacement. The Minister reiterated the British Government’s position on the west bank and Gaza, aiming for a single Palestinian state as part of peace efforts. He also defended decisions regarding arms sales to Israel. Falconer reiterates the Government's commitment to international law and diplomatic efforts with European partners for a ceasefire. He declines to comment directly on sanctions but highlights ongoing efforts and support for Special Envoy Witkoff’s work. Permanent occupation of Gaza would be a grievous blow to a two-state solution. Clearly, the Gaza strip should be a central part of a Palestinian state. We continue to keep all these matters under close review. The World Food Programme has been clear that it is running out of all stocks to sustain life and it is vital that the Israelis reverse their path and allow aid back into the strip. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, and we remain in contact with Israeli Government and allies.
Shadow Response
Dame Priti PatelAsked about the Government's strategy towards Iran, Syria sanctions, coordination with allies, and stability in Lebanon. Highlighted concerns over the UK’s approach to lifting Syrian sanctions and its impact on regional security.