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Occupied Palestinian Territories: Humanitarian Situation
08 November 2023
Lead MP
Andrew Mitchell
Debate Type
Ministerial Statement
Tags
Foreign Affairs
Other Contributors: 75
At a Glance
Andrew Mitchell raised concerns about occupied palestinian territories: humanitarian situation 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
The minister updates the House on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza following Hamas's attack, highlighting that over 2.3 million people need access to safe drinking water and food supplies, with one third of hospitals shut down and 1.5 million displaced. The UK has brought home almost 1,000 British nationals safely and is working to ensure more leave via Rafah border crossing. The minister condemns the hostage-taking by Hamas and supports Israel's right to self-defence while stressing adherence to international humanitarian law. Since October 7th, £30 million of additional aid has been provided, with over 51 tonnes of aid flown into Egypt, including life-saving items. The UK is pressing for effective humanitarian pauses and the use of other land border crossings like Kerem Shalom to increase aid delivery. Rigorous oversight measures are in place to prevent aid diversion.
Lisa Nandy
Lab
Wigan
Question
Shadows the Minister’s update on discussions about Kerem Shalom and asks what efforts are being made for fuel delivery into Gaza. Urges the appointment of a humanitarian co-ordinator to scale up aid passage.
Minister reply
The minister acknowledges the need for urgent measures but does not specify immediate steps or timeframe regarding Kerem Shalom, focusing instead on ongoing discussions and adherence to assurances needed about fuel diversion.
Lisa Nandy
Lab
Wigan
Question
Nandy thanked the Minister and expressed her surprise at his statement's lack of emphasis on fuel supply. She detailed the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, including water shortages and medical care issues due to insufficient power. She urged the Government to expedite discussions regarding Kerem Shalom crossing for aid delivery and appointed a US-style humanitarian co-ordinator. Nandy also emphasised the urgency of humanitarian pauses and the need for safe spaces during such pauses.
Minister reply
Andrew Mitchell acknowledged the importance of fuel supplies highlighted by Nandy, noting ongoing efforts to negotiate its distribution despite Hamas' control over significant amounts of fuel in tunnels. He referenced today’s G7 statement on these issues and emphasised the Government's commitment to humanitarian pauses while stressing the need for safe conditions during such periods.
Question
Selous asked about the Minister's continued stance regarding illegal settlements in Gaza, which are crucial for a viable Palestinian state.
Minister reply
Mitchell affirmed that the Government will continue to prioritise issues such as humanitarian pauses and condemned settler violence, reflecting points made by his statement and the Prime Minister’s response.
Question
Stephens echoed tributes to UN and aid workers killed in Gaza. He questioned Israel's compliance with international human rights law since 14 October and asked about the feasibility of sending a military hospital ship to Egypt for injured individuals leaving Gaza.
Minister reply
Mitchell thanked Stephens, agreeing on the need to follow rules of war and international humanitarian law, noting that both Front Benches are urging Israel to comply.
Saqib Bhatti
Con
Meriden and Solihull East
Question
I have not spoken to a single constituent who has not felt the pain and tragedy of the 1,400 people murdered on 7 October, or of the tragedy unfolding in Gaza. I commend the Minister for all the work he is doing, and I know he works incredibly hard to make sure no stone is left unturned. Can he confirm that aid will increase, if necessary, in future? Does he share my concern about the risk of the conflict expanding because of the presence of Hezbollah?
Minister reply
We have doubled the amount of aid going into the region, but we will increase it further if necessary. We are currently doing a lot of work to try to quantify what is in el-Arish and ensure its physical movement. Britain has sent five forklift trucks and a conveyor belt. The Prime Minister decided to send both air and naval assets to RAF Akrotiri to interdict arms coming in, aiming to contain the conflict.
Rupa Huq
Lab
Ealing Central and Acton
Question
Ten thousand people have been killed in a month, with UN staff, buildings, hospitals, journalists and the third oldest church in Christendom unspared. There are 230-plus hostages still in captivity. The Minister talks about being a critical friend, so will he urge the Netanyahu Administration to recognise that statements such as the one about a “permanent” Gazan takeover, with some Israeli Ministers not even ruling out nukes, are only losing them support?
Minister reply
We condemn the nuclear comment made by a senior Israeli. We work closely with Qatar and others to secure hostage release. The international community has constructive comments on what happens after the conflict.
Question
Will he assure the House that the UK Government are doing everything possible to work with allies to negotiate the return of hostages?
Minister reply
Yes, we are working very closely with allies including Qatar to secure hostage release.
Chi Onwurah
Lab
Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West
Question
As we look forward to a time when the bombing stops, does the Minister agree that the lack of focus on progressing a two-state solution over the past decade was a failure? Will he set out something of what he will be doing to bring renewed focus on a just political settlement?
Minister reply
The Foreign Office and British Government are focused on re-energising the peace process when the opportunity presents itself. The Oslo agreement took place after the first intifada, so there may be an opportunity now for progress.
David Davis
Con
Goole and Pocklington
Question
Does he agree that those who call for a ceasefire must recognise that Hamas is a terrorist organisation and go for ceasefires only when they suit their own regrouping, not to end violence?
Minister reply
Hamas has no intention of engaging in a ceasefire; indeed, they intend to repeat the events of 7 October. So I agree entirely with his understanding and prediction.
Wera Hobhouse
Lib Dem
Bath
Question
Does the Minister agree that the side we need to be on is the side of all those who are working towards a lasting peace?
Minister reply
The hon. Lady is entirely correct in her last point, and indeed in all that she said.
Question
Does he share my concern that Hamas deliberately seek to worsen the humanitarian conditions inside Gaza by destroying water and electricity lines?
Minister reply
Lord Hague accurately predicted the reasons why Hamas were doing this, and ultimately they must fail.
Stephen Timms
Lab
East Ham
Question
Will the Minister distance himself from the description of Palestine marchers as 'hate-filled'? The constituents I have been talking to are decent, law-abiding families who want this to stop.
Minister reply
The rights of protest are cherished in this country and enshrined in law. We respect that.
Question
Does my right hon. Friend agree that the nature of Hamas makes it impossible for Israel to defend itself effectively without breaking engagement rules, causing casualties? Does he accept that this disaster must be a catalyst for finding a proper political solution?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend is entirely correct. The Oslo analogy gives us some hope at a very dark time.
Tan Dhesi
Lab
Slough
Question
Heartbreakingly, the number of children killed in Gaza has surpassed that in global conflict zones for every year since 2019. The death toll in the occupied west bank is rapidly rising. Will the Minister join me in condemning settler violence and ensure those perpetrators are held to account?
Minister reply
The Prime Minister did condemn settler violence, as have I and others across the House. We do everything we can to urge restraint and stop it.
Robin Walker
Con
Question
On children, I welcome both statements made from the Front Benches: my right hon. Friend the Minister is right to focus on every civilian life that has been lost in this conflict, and the hon. Member for Wigan was right to highlight the importance of children in this. I remind the House that the full wording of the Balfour declaration included: 'it being clearly understood that nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in Palestine'. Children’s rights should be at the heart of that, so may I urge my right hon. Friend to double down on the push for humanitarian pauses and for humanitarian access, to make sure that we can protect children’s rights to life and to education?
Minister reply
I thank my hon. Friend for his comments, with which I agree entirely, and for his recollection of the Balfour declaration.
Dwyfor Meirionnydd
Question
I am told by the Muslim Council of Wales that seven families in Wales have lost immediate family members in Palestine, with some having lost children and grandchildren. We fear for the Israeli hostages in Gaza, among them British citizens. More will lose their lives, which is why Plaid Cymru has tabled a motion in the Senedd calling on the international community to seek an immediate ceasefire. In advocating for humanitarian pauses, does the Minister recognise that innocent non-combatants in Gaza will again be killed when pauses cease and that the only way to achieve lasting peace is a ceasefire?
Minister reply
The right hon. Lady will have heard what I and the Opposition Front Bench spokesperson, the hon. Member for Wigan (Lisa Nandy), have said about ceasefires, but the hearts of the whole House will go out to the seven families—and maybe others too, in Wales—who have lost family members.
Bob Blackman
Con
Harrow East
Question
The atrocities on 7 October were well planned and well resourced. Indeed, Hamas, the terrorist group, stockpiled in advance, knowing what the response would be from Israel. Equally, Hamas have been caught out putting injured terrorists through the Rafah crossing into Egypt. What is my right hon. Friend’s assessment of what Hamas should do now to release the resources they have stockpiled, so that there can be a wider humanitarian effort than there is currently?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend is right and knows a great deal about these issues. He is right about the atrocities committed on 7 October by Hamas. This was a pogrom. It was the worst loss of Jewish life at any time in one day since the Holocaust and since 1945. One reason why the Rafah crossing is so difficult is precisely because of the circumstances that he described, with the misuse of the rules by injured Hamas terrorists.
Nadia Whittome
Lab
Nottingham East
Question
According to Gaza’s Ministry of Health, more than 10,000 people have been killed by Israeli forces in the past month—that is one of every 200 residents of Gaza. That does not include everyone who may have died due to lack of clean water or the collapse of the healthcare system after fuel was cut off. How many more people must die before the Government join the UN Secretary-General, the World Health Organisation, UNICEF, Amnesty International, Doctors Without Borders, Save the Children, Oxfam and the UN General Assembly in calling for an immediate ceasefire?
Minister reply
Once again, the hon. Lady will have heard the views of spokespeople on both Front Benches on the issue of a ceasefire, but her comments underline the importance now of trying to achieve these humanitarian pauses, so that help and succour can be brought to those who are suffering.
Question
The loss of life in Israel and Palestine is beyond horror and everybody wants it to stop, but the statement from Hamas that they will not stop until the people of Israel are annihilated is deeply chilling. In his statement, the Minister mentioned radicalisation and the concern that the greater the loss of civilian life, the greater the risk of radicalisation, so I thank him for saying clearly that Israel must take precautions to minimise civilian casualties. I would add that Israel needs to be seen to be taking such precautions. We continue to call for pauses in fighting to let aid in and people out. What assessment has he made of the likelihood of such pauses happening?
Minister reply
I do not think I can give a running commentary on that, except to say that the sinews of everybody are bent towards achieving it. My right hon. Friend makes a good point that, from all this death, destruction and killing, we must guard against the radicalisation of an entire new generation of young people. As President Biden said, it is very important that the lessons of 9/11 are properly learned.
Question
Those of us who support a ceasefire are getting the overwhelming message from both the Government and the Labour Front Bench spokespeople that somehow calling for a ceasefire is naive. Does the Minister think that the Pope is naive in calling for a ceasefire?
Minister reply
I have set out very clearly our understanding, our logic and the reasons why we and Opposition Front Benchers have reached the conclusions we have on a ceasefire. I hope, at the very least, the hon. Gentleman will reflect on those.
Question
Getting aid into Gaza is vital and I welcome the Minister’s statement about looking for additional border crossings. What is more important is making sure that once aid is in Gaza, it gets to the people who need it most. Reports suggest that Hamas are holding more than 200,000 gallons of fuel that could be used for generators, to power hospitals or for ambulances. What is the Government’s assessment of Hamas holding fuel? What steps are being taken to ensure that once aid gets into Gaza, it does not end up in the hands of Hamas?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend is right that we know Hamas have hoarded fuel in Gaza, although I cannot give him a statistic on that. The statistic he gave to the House may or may not be right, but we know that they do have a stockpiling of fuel. In terms of the way in which support will be used once we get the pauses and are able to get help and humanitarian supplies into Gaza, I can tell my hon. Friend that we are very careful indeed. We never work through the Palestinian Authority or Hamas in terms of direct support; we only go through trusted organisations. As I set out in my statement, we are very careful indeed to ensure that the aid gets to those who need it and gets there directly.
Naseem Shah
Lab
Bradford West
Question
The United Nations Secretary-General has said: 'Gaza is becoming a graveyard for children.' More than 4,000 children have been killed since the start of the conflict. Every day we see footage of heartbreaking stories; I watched a small girl being pulled out of the rubble, asking her uncle if she was dead and whether he was taking her to a graveyard. Another video showed a girl of barely five stuck under a collapsed building, praying her final prayers in preparation for her death. At their age, children should be asking whether they are going to a playground, to buy an ice cream or any of those usual things, not whether they are going to a graveyard or preparing for their death. Children outside Al-Shifa Hospital yesterday felt they needed to do a press conference to call on the world to let them live. Minister, when will the UK ramp up its effort to end the bloodshed and ensure that Palestinian children just have the right to live?
Minister reply
The hon. Lady speaks with the greatest possible eloquence. She speaks for the whole House in saying that what is happening to children in Gaza appals us all. I just ask her to consider the wider context, accept that the Government understand and agree with her analysis of the plight of children in Gaza, and will do everything within the wider context to try to bring that to an end.
Question
I refer Members to my entry in the Register of Members’ Financial Interests concerning my visit to Israel and Palestine in May this year. I received a report from a surgeon at a hospital in Gaza today. He says the situation is beyond catastrophic and that he is seeing 'horrific' injuries, the majority of which are to children. He says: 'The type of injuries we are seeing is not something a human mind can accept or tolerate.' He goes on to say that people who are being pulled alive from the rubble 'are scratched and bleeding and full of flies'. A lot of his report is very graphic, including the fact that many children have lost limbs and no one knows who many of them are. The UK is the penholder for the protection of civilians in conflict at the UN Security Council. Can we ensure that all health facilities, including the Indonesia Hospital in Gaza, which was at threat of being bombed, be protected from attack?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend is entirely right to refer to the UK’s role at the United Nations. We take those responsibilities extremely seriously and our brilliant team who work at the UN are doing everything to justify the fact that we hold that particular pen, among any others. My hon. Friend will have heard what the Prime Minister said about the treatment of hospitals, and we will continue to do everything we can to protect them.
Question
May I welcome the balance and tone of the Minister’s statement? When the Government make representations to the Israeli Government about the increase in settler violence in the west bank, what do the Israeli Government say in return?
Minister reply
These are ongoing discussions and they are made at many levels. The Prime Minister has spoken repeatedly to Prime Minister Netanyahu, and my colleague Lord Ahmad has been consistently in the region, as has the Foreign Secretary, so we are having those discussions at every level. The right hon. Gentleman may rest assured that what the Prime Minister has said, and what I have said from the Dispatch Box, is the thrust of those discussions, and we are doing everything we possibly can to drive forward what both he and I believe is the right answer to this.
Nickie Aiken
Con
Question
It is incredibly difficult to hear the testimonies of the survivors of the 7 October Hamas atrocities. Can the Minister assure us that, once this conflict is over and even bigger humanitarian aid is required, the Government will do all they can to help rebuild Gaza?
Minister reply
On peace coming and the international community engaging in a political process, the rebuilding of Gaza will certainly be a part of that.
Jeremy Corbyn
Ind
Islington North
Question
There are 1,400 dead in Israel and 10,000 dead in Gaza; there is increased military activity on the west bank, increased settler violence, and now more and more children dying as this conflict goes on. Is it not time that the British Government joined all those other sensible voices around the world that are doing everything they can to demand and get a ceasefire?
Minister reply
The right hon Gentleman describes an extraordinarily difficult situation; security is necessary for Israel to ensure rockets cannot come over the border again.
Sara Britcliffe
Con
Question
With reports of Israeli forces raiding refugee camps on the west bank and settlers becoming increasingly hostile, will the Minister explain what specific steps he is taking to de-escalate the situation?
Minister reply
The Prime Minister has condemned settler violence and representations are made to the Israeli Government in that respect.
Mike Amesbury
Lab
Question
On humanitarian pauses, can the Minister tell us his assessment of how long they will last, how people will be protected, and how those pauses will be managed?
Minister reply
Aim is to deliver humanitarian supplies safely without putting people in jeopardy; a series of humanitarian pauses should provide for proper supply basis.
Rob Butler
Con
Question
How is the Department working with partners on the ground in Gaza to ensure that aid gets to those who need it, including in hospitals, despite the barbarity and barriers put in their way by Hamas?
Minister reply
Precisely trying to do what you are suggesting; ensuring Hamas brutality does not fetter our ability to get aid through.
Julie Elliott
Lab
Question
Against the backdrop of a child dying every 10 minutes in Gaza and evidence that water entering as aid is not being allowed into northern Gaza, will the Minister confirm support for the independence of the International Criminal Court?
Minister reply
Government are very strong supporters of the ICC and its role in international affairs.
Heather Wheeler
Con
Question
In 13 years as an MP, never received such detailed harrowing letters from Jewish and Muslim communities. Can we work on a two-state solution looking to the future?
Minister reply
Government attach importance to progressing political process towards a safe place for all Gazans and Jewish families.
Caroline Lucas
Green
Question
Did discussions with charities and NGOs include aid agencies such as Oxfam or Christian Aid? Only full ceasefire can deliver conditions to get lifesaving aid into Gaza.
Minister reply
Met this morning chaired by BOND, contact UNICEF, UNRWA; infrastructure issues are important.
James Morris
Con
Question
Does the Minister agree that Hamas should pay a heavy price for their attacks and work towards re-establishing the framework under Oslo for a two-state solution?
Minister reply
People are focused on rebuilding political process; two-state solution is bedrock of British Government policy.
Rachael Maskell
Lab Co-op
York Central
Question
What steps are the Government taking to ensure family reunions and refugees can come from Gaza to the UK?
Minister reply
Working hard to prevent families being broken up through Rafah crossing; MP hotline available for constituents.
Mark Logan
Lab
Question
What is our Government’s position on Israeli reoccupation of Gaza after the war? What criteria would have to be met in order for us to call for a ceasefire?
Minister reply
Representations made; no ceasefire called for at present, but doing everything possible for pauses and humanitarian support.
Afzal Khan
Lab
Manchester Rusholme
Question
The International Committee of the Red Cross has reported that as Gaza loses power, hospitals lose power, putting newborns in incubators and elderly patients who are on oxygen at risk. Without electricity, hospitals turn into morgues. Does the Minister not think that at this point bringing an immediate stop to the violence is the only way to stop hospitals turning into morgues and the whole of Gaza turning into a graveyard?
Minister reply
We are extremely concerned about the position in hospitals and the effects that the hon. Gentleman has described, but I can only repeat what I have already said to the House about how we are doing everything that we can to try to bring these circumstances to a close.
Neil Hudson
Con
Epping Forest
Question
I thank my right hon. Friend for his statement, and for his, the Prime Minister’s and the Foreign Secretary’s ongoing diplomatic efforts. Will my right hon. Friend join me in paying tribute to the brave humanitarian workers who are doing so much in Gaza, and can he reassure the House again that the UK Government are straining every sinew to get as much humanitarian aid into Gaza as quickly as possible?
Minister reply
I am grateful to my hon. Friend for once again reiterating the strong support across the House for the brave humanitarian workers and what they are doing in this terrible conflict, and for expressing his abhorrence that unarmed people who are trying only to benefit their fellow humans should be murdered in this way. He can rest assured that we will do everything that we can to ensure that they are protected.
Ruth Cadbury
Lab
Brentford and Isleworth
Question
Hounslow’s Muslim leaders told me and my hon. Friend the Member for Feltham and Heston (Seema Malhotra) yesterday evening of the horror felt in their communities at the atrocities taking place in Gaza, the need to get aid and support in, and their wish for long-term peace. Now that Israel is threatening to occupy Gaza permanently, will the UK Government support the US Secretary of State Blinken’s insistence that there should be no Israeli occupation of Gaza after this war?
Minister reply
I am grateful to the hon. Lady for telling the House about her meetings with the Muslim leaders in her constituency. I hope that she will tell them about the position of the House, the aid and support that we are trying to get in through the pauses, and the support for the political process that she mentioned. The British Government agree with what Secretary Blinken said, but are absolutely clear that the perpetrators of the dreadful events on 7 October—Hamas—must never be allowed to do it again.
Question
My constituent Momon Zomlot is from Gaza. I met him when he was working as a chef at a local pizza restaurant. He is an incredibly nice and genuine guy, but this morning he sent me a text informing me that his family home was destroyed three days ago and he has heard nothing from his family since. How much longer do we have to wait until this suffering ends and humanitarian aid can reach people such as my constituent’s family?
Minister reply
I cannot tell my hon. Friend the answer to that, but I can tell him that we are doing everything that we can to ensure that the period is as short as possible.
Liam Byrne
Lab
Birmingham Hodge Hill and Solihull North
Question
We are grateful to the Minister for his tireless work, but by his own analysis the aid is not getting through. I commend to him the motion passed by Birmingham City Council last night that calls for an immediate ceasefire binding on all sides, because it is the best way to save the hostages, get aid through, and let the war crimes inspectors do their work. I support that position. I do not think that he does, but could he tell us under what conditions the British Government would shift from a policy of supporting humanitarian pauses to a strategy of supporting an immediate ceasefire?
Minister reply
I hope that the right hon. Gentleman will explain to our friends on Birmingham City Council the reason the Government and indeed his own Front Bench take the view that they do about a ceasefire, but he is right that the critical thing at the moment is to focus on the humanitarian pauses, which are designed to get food to those who need it. Nothing is more important in this context than that.
Question
The Minister said in response to my hon. Friend the Member for Glasgow South West (Chris Stephens) that he wants the Government of Israel to comply with international human rights law and that he encourages them to do so, but he did not answer my hon. Friend’s question: have the Government made an assessment of whether or not the Government of Israel are complying with international human rights law?
Minister reply
It is not for the Government to make such an assessment; it is for lawyers and a court to do so. The critical thing is that Britain makes it clear that all countries must abide by international humanitarian law and the rules of war.
Rushanara Ali
Lab
Bethnal Green and Stepney
Question
Over 10,000 people have already been killed in Gaza in the past month—more than were killed in the 1995 Srebrenica genocide. There are grave concerns that starvation is being used as a weapon of war against 400,000 civilians in the north of Gaza. That is illegal under international law. The UN Secretary-General and a number of others have talked about the need for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza and a halt to the spiral of escalation already taking place, from the west bank to Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Yemen. I recognise the position across the two main parties on a ceasefire, but 120 countries in the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution calling for an immediate humanitarian truce. That has not been achieved either. The Government talk about humanitarian pauses, yet our Government have abstained on UN resolutions. What are the Government doing to use their influence at the international level to stop the bombardment, so that at the very least aid can get in?
Minister reply
As I set out in my statement, we are engaged on all those matters and doing everything we can, through Britain’s very strong diplomatic network, which means that we are engaged and connected to almost all the relevant parties in this matter, and that will continue.
Claire Hanna
SDLP
Belfast South and Mid Down
Question
I thank the Minister for his thoughtful answers. In 1919, seeing children from the defeated Austro-Hungarian empire starving, Eglantyne Jebb established Save the Children. Many people said to her, “How can you help enemy children?” and one of her supporters, the great Irish humanitarian George Bernard Shaw, said: “I have no enemies under the age of seven.” Almost half of Palestinians are children, many thousands of whom have been killed, maimed and orphaned. So have many Israeli children, including one dual Irish citizen who is believed to be among the hostages in Gaza. Does the Minister agree with UNICEF’s regional director, Adele Khodr, who says that the situation in Gaza is “a growing stain on our collective conscience”?
Minister reply
The head of UNICEF, who made those comments, is right to focus on what is happening in Gaza and to express her abhorrence of what is taking place. On the hon. Lady’s citation of the brilliant work that Save the Children does, I have been intimately connected with Save the Children for the last 20 years and we honour both its work and the success it so often achieves.
Stella Creasy
Lab Co-op
Walthamstow
Question
Everybody wants the bloodshed to stop; the question is how to secure that ambition in a lasting way, not whether we should seek it. For my constituents, that matters not just as a policy for the UK Government, but for the people on the ground, who are our neighbours and directly affected. May I have a few precious moments of the Minister’s time to help to offer them just a crumb of comfort? For 30 days they have not heard anything. Both Oded and Ibrahim are at direct risk of harm due to Hamas and the Israeli missiles. Oded, the father of one of my constituents, was kidnapped by Hamas, and the Prime Minister made a personal pledge to assist him. Ibrahim is at risk because we do not yet know why he and his family have not been able to cross the border at Rafah. May I seek an urgent meeting with the Minister to look specifically at those two cases and to find those rays of light we all desperately want for my constituents?
Minister reply
In response to the hon. Lady’s request for a meeting, she will know that the crisis centre in the Foreign Office, which is full of both willing volunteers and experts in these consular matters, will be the right place to take this issue. However, I will certainly meet her immediately after this statement.
Seema Malhotra
Lab Co-op
Feltham and Heston
Question
A doctor sent a message last night from Gaza saying, “We have worms coming out of wounds even after we do surgeries. Nothing is clean. Nothing is sterile.” It is clear that we need an urgent cessation of hostilities on all sides on humanitarian grounds, because the situation in Gaza is now unspeakable. At the same time, as well as condemning settler violence in the west bank, we need more action to bring an end to it. May I bring the Minister back to a question of accountability under international law, following the question from my hon. Friend the Member for Sunderland Central (Julie Elliott)? Will the Minister confirm that the Government support the independence of the International Criminal Court and recognise its jurisdiction to address the conduct of all parties in Gaza and the west bank?
Minister reply
We are very strong supporters of the International Criminal Court, and that has been true under Governments from both the main parties. On the hon. Lady’s important point that we need to see an end to settler violence, the Government entirely agree.
Question
My hon. Friend the Member for Bradford West (Naz Shah) set out in the most powerful way why the deaths and trauma experienced by innocent children in Gaza are utterly intolerable. The supply of basic utilities such as water, medicine, electricity and fuel needed to operate the hospitals in Gaza should not be blocked. It is unacceptable that siege conditions are still being imposed on Gaza by Israel. Can the Minister confirm that he agrees, and what has he done to communicate that to Israel as a matter of urgency?
Minister reply
The Government at every level are engaged in those discussions with the state of Israel. The hon. Lady lists a number of humanitarian supplies that need to get through, and Britain is at the forefront of the international community in doing everything we can to ensure both that they do get through, and that there are sufficient supplies in the region.
Hayes and Harlington
Question
Inquired about verified reports regarding potential ceasefire and hostage release negotiations with Qatar.
Minister reply
Confirmed that Qatar has been helpful, but could not give a running commentary on hostage negotiations.
Question
Asked if immediate release of hostages would enable humanitarian pauses or ceasefires needed for aid delivery.
Minister reply
Agreed with the questioner.
Jon Trickett
Lab
Normanton and Hemsworth
Question
Called for support behind UN Secretary-General's call for a ceasefire, emphasising the moral authority of the position.
Minister reply
Stated that Britain is second to none in trying to stop the conflict but emphasised blame on Hamas.
Zarah Sultana
Your Party
Coventry South
Question
Asked why the Government would not demand an immediate ceasefire as backed by 76% of British public.
Minister reply
Stated that while there are effects, causes must also be considered and argued against supporting her amendment.
Question
Asked why the Minister would not support a ceasefire as demanded by constituents and Oxfam.
Minister reply
Explained that there have been no pauses yet, hence the efforts to achieve them.
Kate Osamor
Lab Co-op
Edmonton and Winchmore Hill
Question
Inquired about ensuring humanitarian aid actually reaches Gaza amidst reports of hospitals running out of fuel.
Minister reply
Acknowledged the concern, reiterated efforts to ensure pauses for aid delivery.
Alex Sobel
Lab Co-op
Leeds Central and Headingley
Question
Asked about abstention from UN resolution calling for humanitarian access and truce.
Minister reply
Explained the decision to abstain, would consider voting on new resolutions.
Clive Efford
Lab
Eltham and Chislehurst
Question
Asked about consensus with partners regarding length of humanitarian pauses needed for aid delivery.
Minister reply
Noted that these matters are subjects of intensive negotiations.
Sarah Owen
Lab
Luton North
Question
Inquired about international support and pressure to achieve a permanent ceasefire after multiple horrors witnessed.
Minister reply
Stated the call for comprehensive humanitarian pauses rather than immediate ceasefires.
Question
Asked about measures to stress safety for journalists in conflict areas, crucial for accurate reporting.
Minister reply
Acknowledged journalist deaths and stated support for changes implemented by former Foreign Secretary.
Jim McMahon
Lab Co-op
Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton
Question
Asked if the Government would meet a request to appoint a co-ordinator for aid as per shadow Foreign Secretary's proposal.
Minister reply
Indicated consideration but noted current specialists working on different aspects of the situation.
Janet Daby
Lab
Lewisham East
Question
Asked about steps taken to support UNICEF in protecting children in Gaza.
Minister reply
Emphasised Britain's strong support for UNICEF and their effectiveness.
Andrew Slaughter
Lab
Hammersmith and Chiswick
Question
Yesterday a mother and five children—all UK citizens in my constituency—finally made it out of Gaza, having experienced sights that no child should witness. If war crimes are committed, they should be investigated. Will the Minister answer the question that he has deftly avoided so far: is there a role for the International Criminal Court in investigating the conduct of all parties to this terrible war?
Minister reply
I do not think it fair to say that I was avoiding the question. Britain’s support and enthusiasm for the work of the ICC should not be in doubt.
Fleur Anderson
Lab
Putney
Question
Does the Minister agree that, for the 1.5 million Palestinians who had to flee, the right to return to their homes is vital for long-term peace? Has the Minister raised that in his diplomatic meetings?
Minister reply
We all hope that the two-state solution will be implemented so that Israel can live behind secure borders and the state of Palestine emerges.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Question
What steps will the Government take to ensure that British dual nationals are guaranteed safe passage via the Rafah crossing?
Minister reply
More than 150 British nationals have now come out, and all our country-based staff and dependents were out by last night. There are 32 British nationals who are waiting for clearance.
Rachel Hopkins
Lab
Luton South and South Bedfordshire
Question
Can the Minister outline how the Government are working with international partners to ensure that urgent fuel and humanitarian supplies are getting into Gaza?
Minister reply
The international humanitarian community is doing everything it can to address these very challenging circumstances.
Diana R. Johnson
Lab
Kingston upon Hull North and Cottingham
Question
Can the Minister outline what work is going on to make sure that humanitarian aid is getting to pregnant women, new mums and babies?
Minister reply
If we are able to get aid in, we have specific humanitarian aid and support for mothers of babies and when we can get access in that respect, we will do everything we can to meet that need.
Munira Wilson
Lib Dem
Twickenham
Question
With the UN, the WHO, and the lead prosecutor of the ICC warning of breaches of international law, will the Minister explain what it will take for his Government to stand up to Netanyahu and make clear that this abject suffering cannot continue?
Minister reply
We are able to have clear and firm discussions with the Prime Minister of Israel about Britain’s right to self-defence.
Andrew Gwynne
Ind
Gorton and Denton
Question
By when do we expect that target to be met for hundreds of aid lorries a day across the Rafah crossing?
Minister reply
Britain has been supplying humanitarian provisions into el-Arish so that they can go through Rafah when circumstances permit.
Question
Will the Minister urgently press all parties to agree to an immediate de-escalation and cessation of hostilities, and will he do all he can to bring about a peaceful resolution?
Minister reply
I am very relieved to hear about her constituent Mr Abdel Hammad. I will pass on her thanks to both the Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary.
Cat Smith
Lab
Lancaster and Wyre
Question
Can he commit to making representations to his Israeli counterparts that all those displaced in Gaza will be able to return?
Minister reply
Britain is absolutely focused on the wellbeing of the people of Gaza and their future.
Richard Burgon
Lab
Leeds East
Question
Why do this Government think that they know better than the world’s leading humanitarian agencies?
Minister reply
All of us across the House are engaged in trying to bring these dreadful events to a close.
Sharon Hodgson
Lab
Washington and Gateshead South
Question
What discussions are the Government having with regional partners, especially Egypt, to ensure that the Rafah crossing will allow for many more people to leave Gaza much more quickly?
Minister reply
We are having detailed discussions with all our regional partners. In respect of Egypt, I had a discussion yesterday at around midday with the Egyptian ambassador.
Question
In depriving the civilian population of Gaza of water, food, medicine and power, combined with the forced relocation of civilians, not respecting the sanctity of hospitals—indeed, bombing or threatening to bomb hospitals—and targeting civilian infrastructure including refugee camps, Israel has broken articles 3, 18, 23, 33 and 47 of the Geneva conventions. What exactly do the Israel Defence Forces have to do before this Government call out Israel for its war crimes?
Minister reply
I would not accept the hon. Gentleman’s analysis, in his question, of the Geneva convention, but when he talks about the need for water, food and medicines, he may rest assured that Britain is focused very much on those supplies in its humanitarian efforts.
Paula Barker
Lab
Liverpool Wavertree
Question
In 2014, a six-hour pause made way for a three-day pause before a ceasefire. This House must be on the right side of history, and I absolutely respect the Minister for the time and the tone of the statement today. However, does he agree that, for lasting peace, we must inevitably reach the point of a ceasefire, even after humanitarian pauses? Will he assure me that he will press for that with our international partners to ensure that we have lasting peace in the region?
Minister reply
In spite of the hon. Lady’s very generous comments, I cannot agree with her, for the reasons I have set out, about calling now for a ceasefire, but I hope she will feel that the intention of the Government, along with our partners, in respect of humanitarian pauses is moving in the right direction.
Justin Madders
Lab
Ellesmere Port and Bromborough
Question
I understand the need for Israel to act to free the hostages and deal with Hamas, although the images we see and the number of children who have been killed can sometimes seem a very distant way away from those objectives. On the latter of those aims, in relation to Hamas’s capacity, I would like to know how the UK Government will judge whether that objective has been reached and whether we have reached a point when we say to Israel that that is enough?
Minister reply
I recognise that the hon. Member is being supportive in saying that the purpose of the Israeli Government is to free the hostages and deal with Hamas. I am sure this will not be the only occasion when I come to the House to give a statement about both the humanitarian position and also the position throughout Gaza.
Question
When so many children are being horribly maimed and killed, it really is not naive to call for a ceasefire. That is why so many international voices are calling for a ceasefire, including my friends at the International Bar Association’s Human Rights Institute. They have done that against the background of an assessment that the rules of international humanitarian law have not only been broken by Hamas, but may be being broken by the Israeli Government.
I was very disappointed to hear that the UK Government have not carried out an assessment of whether international humanitarian law is being obeyed on the ground in Gaza. This matters terribly to my constituents, many hundreds of whom have written to me about it. May I suggest to the Minister that if the UK Government fulfilled their obligation to carry out an assessment of whether international humanitarian law is being obeyed on the ground in Gaza, that might change both the UK Government’s mind and the mind of the official Opposition, and make them support a ceasefire now?
Minister reply
The hon. and learned Lady is a distinguished lawyer, and she will know that the judgment she is asking the Government to make is not a judgment for Ministers and politicians, but a judgment for lawyers in respect of international law, so I fear that I am not in a position, as a Minister, to give a direct answer to her question.
Florence Eshalomi
Lab Co-op
Vauxhall and Camberwell Green
Question
I want to thank the Minister for the way he has conducted himself this afternoon, listening to the wide range of concerns from right hon. and hon. Members. My prayers and thoughts remain with the hostages, who have been kidnapped for over 30 days now. They have to be released safely and urgently.
I have received so many emails from constituents who are really concerned about the ongoing humanitarian situation in Gaza. I recently met Islamic Relief UK, which is based in my Vauxhall constituency, and it shared with me the harrowing story of one of its aid workers on the ground:
“None of us has proper food, we’re struggling to find water and we have no electricity. Humanitarian assistance is not being allowed into Gaza and I fear people will starve here.”
That is a quote from an Islamic Relief staff member in Gaza who fled south with his family. These calls are real, and these calls are being made now. People are in desperate need of help. People are facing a major crisis. What more will the Minister and this Government do to make sure they are speaking to their Israeli counterparts to ensure that that pause is real and that it comes now, so we can get in urgent assistance and do not see more innocent civilians dying?
Minister reply
I think the hon. Lady speaks for the House about the importance of achieving the humanitarian pauses, which have been greatly mentioned over the last hour and a half. I say to her that I know those at Islamic Relief extremely well, and I have visited them in her constituency. They do fantastic work, and we all honour and respect them for that. In her question, she talked about the importance of releasing the hostages and addressing humanitarian concern. Those two things are at the heart of what the House has been discussing today, and I thank her for ending this session on a constructive note.
Shadow Comment
Lisa Nandy
Shadow Comment
The shadow minister highlights the ongoing devastation, with over 10,000 people killed and two-thirds being women and children. She calls for urgent fuel deliveries to Gaza and more efforts to lift siege conditions. Urging the appointment of a humanitarian co-ordinator as in the US example, she emphasises the importance of humanitarian pauses for aid and dialogue towards peace. The minister is urged to raise protection concerns regarding hospitals, schools, and refugee camps with Israeli counterparts. The shadow minister calls for an emergency plan to support Gaza's children and prioritise aid to them.
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