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Question
What action is being taken by the Government to support Gaza reconstruction and removal of Hamas’s terrorist infrastructure? Can you confirm the quantum of aid going through these routes?
Minister reply
The Minister responded that full diplomatic engagement is required for peace in Gaza, but did not provide specific details on reconstruction efforts or the exact amount of aid being provided.
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Question
What assessment does the Government have regarding Hezbollah’s threat and ongoing ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon?
Minister reply
The Minister condemned Hezbollah attacks on northern Israel, emphasising that threats from Hezbollah must be addressed to sustain peace.
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Question
Does the Government agree with the need for new sanctions against Iran and stricter measures on regime officials and assets?
Minister reply
The Minister did not explicitly confirm or deny additional sanctions but emphasised the importance of ending hostilities through diplomatic efforts.
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Question
What are the Government’s specific positions on Iran's nuclear programme, ballistic capabilities, and military stance?
Minister reply
The Minister stated that the Government is committed to ensuring Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon but did not provide further details on specific measures regarding Iran's capabilities.
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Question
How are UK officials addressing the recruitment call from the Iranian embassy and the Home Office’s intervention?
Minister reply
The Minister acknowledged summoning the Iranian ambassador but did not specify further actions by the Home Office.
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Question
How is the UK-GCC free trade agreement impacting British interests and how might Labour’s plans affect this?
Minister reply
The Minister emphasised the economic benefits of the FTA but did not directly address concerns about potential EU re-entry by Labour.
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Question
The conflict and crisis in the Middle East continues to be felt in Britain, requiring the Government to use their diplomatic leverage for peace. The Minister must confirm consular access for British nationals, support Gaza reconstruction, remove Hamas's infrastructure, engage COGAT/CMCC on aid routes, and address Hezbollah threats. He should also clarify Iran's nuclear programme dismantling stance, ongoing discussions about the Strait of Hormuz, new sanctions against Iran, and free trade agreement with GCC.
Minister reply
The Minister reassured that consular access is sought for British nationals in Israel. He confirmed heavy engagement on Gaza reconstruction and aid delivery, including regular discussions on Hamas disarmament and Lebanese Hezbollah. Sanctions targeting senior Iranian regime assets worth £140 million have been implemented. The GCC free trade agreement negotiations were initiated by the Opposition but concluded from Government Benches.
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Question
Welcoming the Minister's statement, the Member questioned the delay in responding to the International Court of Justice’s advisory opinion on Israel and the occupied territories. The ICJ report highlighted settler violence and annexation intentions by the Israeli Government. She asked when action will be taken to ensure international law is respected.
Minister reply
The Minister emphasised ongoing steps to adhere to international law, noting that the horizontal implications of the advisory opinion extend beyond the Middle East context. He committed to providing a fuller response in due course.
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Question
The UK Government's response to the actions of Hamas and Hezbollah, the Israeli Security Cabinet, and the construction in the E1 area. The MP also asks for steps to ban trade with illegal settlements and reverse cuts to monitoring units.
Minister reply
Clarifies British leadership on these issues, stating that sanctions have been imposed before events occurred. Denies specific targeting of Foreign Office units but confirms an offer of redundancy was made to all staff. Emphasises ongoing support for the Iran unit and IHL cell.
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Question
Asks if the diplomacy and limited sanctions approach is working, and calls for escalation through criminal law enforcement, updating guidance on business risks, and advising regulatory bodies about illegal trade in settlement goods.
Minister reply
Acknowledges that further development of E1 settlement would be damaging to a two-state solution. Promises to treat any moves towards such developments with seriousness.
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Question
Asks about the possibility of reaching trade agreements with GCC members while influencing them for positive roles in resolving issues in Yemen, Sudan, etc.
Minister reply
Confirms regular discussions with GCC partners on various international crises. Emphasises continued engagement regarding Yemen and other disputes.
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Question
Questions whether anyone who wants a just and lasting peace in the Middle East must oppose settlement expansion.
Minister reply
Agrees with the questioner that opposing settlement expansion is crucial for peace.
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Question
Concerned about the treatment and release of a detained professor from St Andrews. Inquires if calls raised by Sumud flotilla were discussed in meetings.
Minister reply
Confirms that aid routes are being reopened as per the 20-point plan.
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Question
Critiques the Government's actions, asking for comprehensive sanctions and bans on settlement trade. Cites ongoing human rights violations.
Minister reply
Acknowledges long-standing commitment to these issues and reassures that further meaningful action will be taken.
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Question
Expresses frustration over the Government's response to the situation in Israel and Palestine, citing ongoing violence and lack of progress. Asks about detainees from the flotilla.
Minister reply
Acknowledges that actions behind closed doors are likely worse than those seen on camera, emphasising sanctions against Ben-Gvir.
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Question
Asks for reassurance regarding consular rights and justice for detained individuals.
Minister reply
States that full consular rights are being pressed, and that participants on the flotilla will be deported back to their place of origin.
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Question
Raises concerns about ongoing violence in Gaza and the west bank, criticises lack of sanctions against Israel.
Minister reply
Reiterates that no bombs or bullets are being provided to Israel, mentions sanctions on Ben-Gvir and Smotrich.
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Question
Challenges the Minister's response, citing recent incidents of detainee treatment and aid restrictions.
Minister reply
States that the UK is using diplomatic weight to improve the situation.
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Question
Pays tribute to Egypt's peacemaking role, criticises Ben-Gvir's actions in Gaza.
Minister reply
Agrees with the right hon. Gentleman and expresses appreciation for his comments.
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Question
Asks about measures to support Gulf states under threat from Iran.
Minister reply
Acknowledges the trade agreement with gulf countries, emphasises close cooperation with them.
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Question
Raises concern for a constituent illegally arrested on the Global Sumud Flotilla, calls for ban on imports from illegal settlements and arms embargo.
Minister reply
Discusses the F-35 supply chain loophole and challenges Liberal Democrats to clarify their position.
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Question
Questions why the Government is waiting to ban settlement goods and trade with illegal settlements.
Minister reply
Reassures that the situation is treated seriously, but does not trail further announcements.
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Question
Questions how the Minister would have de-fanged Iran and gives credit to predecessors for FTA with gulf states.
Minister reply
Acknowledges that talks on GCC FTA started under previous Government.
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Question
Even as we debate today, Israel continues to commit genocide in Gaza and war crimes across Palestine. The Minister’s response is becoming repetitive with light condemnation and vague promises; what specific actions will the Government take immediately?
Minister reply
The UK has taken significant steps by sanctioning Israeli Ministers for their actions. These sanctions are unprecedented in British history, and others are considering similar measures. The Government remains committed to taking further action as necessary.
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Question
Why is the Minister hesitant to take decisive action against Israel’s expansion of settlements and its actions in Gaza, despite European partners looking to imitate UK sanctions?
Minister reply
The Government has taken significant steps already, including sanctions on arms exports. Further actions are under consideration without pre-announcing them.
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Question
What conversations has the Minister had with Israeli officials regarding their glorification of rapists and allowing them to serve in the military? What specific further action is planned?
Minister reply
Further actions are under consideration without pre-announcing them.
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Question
Why has the UK not taken unilateral steps to ban trade with illegal settlements in occupied Palestinian territories, as other European countries have done?
Minister reply
The UK has gone further than the EU on these matters. Trade bans are an EU competence and discussions are ongoing.
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Question
How can the Minister say enough is enough to those perpetrating acts against Palestinians if there is no meaningful action taken?
Minister reply
The UK will continue to take every step possible in recognition of the seriousness of the situation.
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Question
Why is the Government's reaction characterized by hesitancy, given that British nationals have been subjected to public humiliation and physical harm?
Minister reply
The Government has been engaged in cases of British nationals on the flotilla since they were first alerted.
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Question
Should Netanyahu, Ben-Gvir and Smotrich be handed over to the International Criminal Court for their ongoing genocide in Gaza? Should Israel disarm its nuclear power if Iran is not allowed to have it?
Minister reply
The UK encourages all states to fully abide by commitments under both the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and the Rome statute.
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Question
Will the Government continue to enact sanctions against violent settler movements, ban imports of settlement goods, and sanction politicians inciting violence in Palestine?
Minister reply
Further sanctions are under consideration but not pre-announced. The UK has condemned measures such as the introduction of the death penalty.
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Question
Suggests taking action against companies bidding to build homes on Palestinian soil, introducing a trade ban on settlement products and services, suspending trade concessions with Israel. Questions why criticism alone is not effective.
Minister reply
Acknowledges receipt of the letter from the MP.
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Question
Asks for assurance that no arms are being sent to Israel either directly or indirectly, which could be used against Palestinians.
Minister reply
Reassures the MP that they are not selling any bombs or bullets that could be used against Palestinians.
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Question
Expresses concern about Israel's disinterest in peace and disregard for international norms. Asks if more pressure should be put on regional partners.
Minister reply
Agrees with the MP, stating that they need to work with their partners across the region.
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Question
Highlights the deaths of healthcare and rescue personnel in Lebanon despite UK's humanitarian response contribution. Asks if there must be accountability.
Minister reply
Responds that there must be accountability, mentioning his meeting with members of the Lebanese Red Cross during a recent visit.
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Question
Thanks Minister for visiting a school in Hebron. Asks about pupils' hopes for peace and right to education.
Minister reply
Heard from girls who want to be doctors and teachers but cannot get to school due to restrictions, highlighting the need for progress.
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Question
Asks about an alleged arrest warrant issued by the Israeli Finance Minister Smotrich. Asks if the Minister condemns any attempt to put pressure on the International Criminal Court and punish Palestinian people.
Minister reply
The Minister agrees with all three questions, condemning attempts to pressure the ICC and punish Palestinians.
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Question
Expresses concern about the reported closure of the Conflict and Security Monitoring Project. Asks if the Foreign Office can still track potential breaches of international law.
Minister reply
Offers assurance that the Foreign Office is still able to track such breaches.
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Question
Thanks Minister for his statement and declares interest as a member of the Board of Deputies of British Jews. Criticises actions of Israeli Ministers seen on news, stating they have nothing to do with Anglo-Jewish population.
Minister reply
Agrees that the actions of Israeli Government are unrelated to British Jewry. Reiterates there is no excuse for antisemitism.