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Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories

23 March 2023

Lead MP

Anne-Marie Trevelyan

Debate Type

Ministerial Statement

Tags

EconomyBrexitForeign AffairsBusiness & TradeWomen & Equalities
Other Contributors: 25

At a Glance

Anne-Marie Trevelyan raised concerns about israel and the occupied palestinian territories in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

How the Debate Unfolded

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

Government Statement

EconomyBrexitForeign AffairsBusiness & TradeWomen & Equalities
Government Statement
The UK is deeply concerned about the increasing violence in the West Bank. The Foreign Secretary spoke to his Israeli counterpart, Eli Cohen, on Tuesday to urge de-escalation ahead of Easter, Passover and Ramadan. He also urged Palestinian leadership to avoid further cycles of violence. Israel and Palestine held meetings in Aqaba and Sharm el-Sheikh recently; the UK welcomes these engagements but calls for adherence to commitments made there. The UK wants three steps: 1) resumption of security cooperation between PA and Israel, combating terrorism, and improving area A's security situation; 2) tackling settler violence against Palestinians and ending impunity culture; 3) ceasing unilateral measures that hinder dialogue like approving settlements and evictions in east Jerusalem. The Foreign Secretary raised concerns about the E1 site expansion speculation and is pleased with a moratorium now imposed. However, the recent repeal of the Disengagement Plan Implementation Law by Knesset is worrying as it further undermines a two-state solution. Peace and security are essential for all Israelis and Palestinians, requiring political will, cooperation and meaningful actions from both sides.

Shadow Comment

Anum Qaisar
Shadow Comment
Respects to those killed in recent violence; Muslims fasting but witnessing human rights violations in Palestinian territories. More than a thousand Palestinians face forcible transfer from Masafer Yatta, amounting to war crimes. The UK must de-escalate violence during Prime Minister Netanyahu’s state visit. Will the UK raise Amnesty International's conclusion that Israel commits apartheid against Palestinians? Disgust at Finance Minister's denial of Palestinian existence and desire to wipe out Huwara village. Continued illegal settlement development despite promises, will trade deal talks be suspended if construction doesn't stop? Systematic discrimination by Israeli military; halt arms sales approval, support ICC investigation into violations. Accepting Al Jazeera escalation to ICC for Shireen Abu Akleh's murder; unless urgent action taken, UK is ignoring impunity.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

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