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Israel and Palestine
08 September 2026
Lead MP
Ed Miliband
Debate Type
Ministerial Statement
Tags
EconomyCommunity SecurityReligion & Faith
Other Contributors: 82
At a Glance
Ed Miliband raised concerns about israel and palestine 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, Ed Miliband, made a statement regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He began by expressing his personal connection to Israel, acknowledging the trauma of the Hamas terrorist attack and emphasising the right of Israel to defend itself. He also condemned Iran's threats and actions against Israel and announced new sanctions against Lebanese Hezbollah's financing arm and Iran. Miliband highlighted the rise of antisemitism in the UK and the additional investment of £250 million for community security. He reiterated the government's commitment to the two-state solution and expressed deep concern over the situation in Gaza and the West Bank, emphasising the need to call out injustice and act against it. He announced measures including a ban on the import of goods from illegal settlements, targeting companies and individuals involved in settlement expansion, and a ban on the advertising of illegal settlements. Miliband also discussed arms sales and Palestinian governance, urging both parties to take necessary steps for peace. He expressed support for accountability regarding the situation in Gaza and pledged humanitarian support. He acknowledged the support of other countries in implementing these policies and emphasised the importance of upholding values and supporting a two-state solution.
Thomas Tugendhat
Con
Tonbridge and Malling
Question
The shadow questioned the coherence of the policy, the coordination with international partners, the impact on domestic security, and the effect on security partnerships with Israel and the United States. He also inquired about the instructions given to enforcement bodies to ensure continued supply of essential drugs and the accreditation of diplomats to the Palestinian embassy.
Minister reply
The minister responded to the MP's concerns by reaffirming the government's commitment to the two-state solution and the need for accountability regarding the situation in Gaza and the West Bank. He emphasised the importance of international cooperation and the measures taken to ensure the impact on innocent Palestinians and Israelis is minimized. He also acknowledged the need for practical implementation and the support of other countries in implementing these policies.
Thomas Tugendhat
Con
Tonbridge and Malling
Question
The MP raised concerns about the coherence of the policy, the international coordination, the impact on domestic security and community cohesion, the impact on security partnerships, and the provision of medical supplies. He also questioned the Government's readiness to deal with potential diplomatic ramifications if Hamas wins the elections in Gaza.
Minister reply
The Minister for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs acknowledged the concerns but defended the policy, stating it is coherent and will target settlements, not green-line Israel. He emphasised the international coalition assembled to support the sanctions and the protection of community cohesion, security partnerships, and medical supplies. He reiterated the Government's commitment to acting against the illegal occupation and the protection of Jews in Britain and worldwide.
Emily Thornberry
Lab
Islington South and Finsbury
Question
The MP congratulated the Foreign Secretary for taking a strong stance against the illegal construction of settlements in the occupied territories and requested a meeting to discuss the implementation of sanctions as quickly as possible.
Minister reply
The Minister agreed to meet with the Committee and officials to discuss the implementation of the sanctions, aiming for a speedy execution of the plans.
Calum Miller
Liberal Democrats
Question
The hon. Gentleman expressed support for the Foreign Secretary's measures and raised concerns about the implementation of enforcement measures and the extension of the global human rights regime. He also asked about the ICJ's work and the Government's assessment of duties created by the ICJ's ruling.
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary thanked the hon. Gentleman for his support and addressed his concerns by confirming that the ICJ's work is fully supported and that the Government agree with the ICJ's ruling on the unlawfulness of the occupation. He also clarified that the supply of F-35 parts indirectly to the global supply chain is necessary to maintain the programme's integrity for NATO and other allies. The Foreign Secretary committed to discussing the global human rights regime and its application to breaches of international humanitarian law. He also acknowledged the need for reform of the Palestinian Authority and the disarmament of Hamas.
Liam Byrne
Lab
Birmingham, Hodge Hill
Question
The right hon. Friend welcomed the statement and raised concerns about the legal power needed to implement the full ban on goods, services, and investment as proposed by the Foreign Secretary.
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary confirmed that a new sanctions regime under the SAMLA regime will provide the necessary legal powers to implement the ban on goods and services. He emphasised the importance of action on both goods and services to have a real impact on settlement expansion. The Foreign Secretary committed to ensuring that the measures have full effect and force to be effective.
Edward Leigh
Con
Gainsborough
Question
The hon. Member supported the measures, expressing his deep friendship for Israel and concern about the violent and egregious actions in the west bank, and asked if the measures should affect the intelligence relationship between the UK and Israel.
Minister reply
The Foreign Secretary thanked the hon. Member for his words and acknowledged his support for the measures. He emphasised that the actions of the Israeli Government have not made Israel more secure and have made it less secure. The Foreign Secretary reiterated the importance of a two-state solution for the security of the people of Israel and pledged to work with friends of Israel across the country and the world to support the rights, freedoms, and security of both Palestinian and Israeli people.
Sarah Champion
Lab
Rotherham
Question
I welcome the entirety of this statement, particularly the acceptance of the ICJ advisory recommendation that Israel is illegally occupying Palestine. The ICJ recommendation is broad and damning. It is not just about settlements; it is about taking Palestinian natural resources, forced transfer, taking Palestinian land, taking their goods and taking their businesses. It is also about stopping Palestinian trade and the free movement of people, and about imposing Israeli laws on the Palestinian people. Has the Foreign Secretary given any consideration to moving a motion at the UN Security Council to protect Palestinian rights? Is he doing anything to support the Palestinian Authority to be able to govern effectively? Is he doing more to urge Israeli politicians and the Israeli Government to enable journalists and politicians to enter Gaza, so that we can see for ourselves exactly what is going on?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend has played an incredibly important role in the advocacy on these issues, including through the International Development Committee, and I take all her points on board. One of the things that we will seek to do through events that will take place at the United Nations—not just the conference we are holding with Jordan, but other events that we will be announcing shortly—is precisely to try to get at these issues. The situation in Gaza is so urgent and so desperate that we must do everything we can to act.
Julian Lewis
Con
New Forest East
Question
Does the Foreign Secretary agree that this action is unlikely to affect the policy of the Netanyahu Government? As I hardly need to remind him, Israel is a parliamentary democracy. Has he reason to believe that this action might affect the policy of the Israeli Opposition, and did he have any contact with the Israeli Opposition parties before coming to that conclusion?
Minister reply
Absolutely; we talk with all partners in Israel. I do not want to in any sense interfere in that election. The election is for the Israeli people to make their own decisions about their future. I have set out the policy of the British Government, and I have made it clear that our quarrel is not with the Israeli people, but with the policies of the Netanyahu Government. I said something in my statement that I would just highlight to the right hon. Member, which is that we will assess the actions of any Israeli Government in the future whether on Gaza or the west bank.
Naseem Shah
Lab
Bradford West
Question
I place on record my support for the Foreign Secretary for taking this strong stance today. As the Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, my right hon. Friend the Member for Islington South and Finsbury (Emily Thornberry) said, “At last!” Finally, we can breathe, but we still cannot breathe like the Palestinians deserve to be able to breathe while they are still being occupied, and it is so welcome that our Government have taken this position. The situation needed Britain to lead, and today Britain has led. I am equally proud of our Government for taking this stance. Does the Foreign Secretary agree that Britain needs to continue to show this leadership to ensure that the two-state solution happens and that the Palestinians are free of occupation?
Minister reply
I agree with my hon. Friend, and I again praise her for her work on this issue. I am grateful for the kind words about my statement, but I feel a deep sense of humility when compared, for example, with people I have met such as the doctor—a British paediatrician—who was going to Gaza to try to help children and people who are sick. There are so many people in our country who have not only campaigned on this issue, but actually gone there and tried to make a difference, and I think we should recognise them today.
Oliver Dowden
Con
Hertsmere
Question
Many of my Jewish constituents have very grave concerns about the conduct of the current Israeli Government. However, Israel is the Jewish homeland, and I think many of them are concerned about the content of the statement, the highly political tone of the briefing around it and its timing before Israelis themselves can decide in an election—a democratic election. In all of that, the message they are getting is that the current Government no longer regard Israel as a friend, and that heaps pressure on an already beleaguered Jewish population. What does the Foreign Secretary say to my constituents, many of whom are simply giving up on this country?
Minister reply
I do not agree with the right hon. Member. I respect his point of view. I think we have to distinguish in this debate, as I have said, between Jews in Britain and indeed across the world and the Israeli Government, but we also have to distinguish between the Israeli people and the Israeli Government. There is a whole diversity of opinion in Israel on these questions. I just want to say on the election, because it was raised by the shadow Foreign Secretary as well, that I obviously listened to those people who said, “Let’s wait. Let’s wait even longer.” I do not believe we can wait. I believe the situation is too urgent. Look at E1, where the tender finishes before the election. If I can put it this way—I do this carefully—we cannot outsource our political and moral responsibilities to the Israeli Opposition. It is our responsibility to decide what we accept, what we consider legal and what we do.
Question
I thank the Secretary of State for his statement, and I am supportive of further measures on sanctions against the current extremist regime in Israel, in concert with our international allies. As we approach the Jewish high holy days, however—and to protect the religious freedom of British Jews, who bear no responsibility for the actions of the Israeli Government—I would like some assurances from him that there is sufficient clarity on imports, particularly agricultural products such as etrogim, which are a feature of the festival of Sukkot, so that there are not unintended consequences of the implementation of today’s announcements as they take effect.
Minister reply
My hon. Friend asks a really important question—I am glad she did—and I said in my statement that there will be suitable religious exemptions from the import ban. Some hon. Members may wonder why it takes six to nine months to bring this in. It is precisely because we want to get it right, and getting it right means a proper dialogue with the Jewish community.
Layla Moran
Lib Dem
Oxford West and Abingdon
Question
I have to say that I shed a tear—not necessarily at the sanctions part of the statement, but the part where the Government said that the occupation is illegal. Ever since my election as the first British-Palestinian MP, I have stood up to ask that question in statements such as this—I do not speak for the people of Palestine; I speak here for the people of Oxford West and Abingdon, but I could only ever speak for myself—and, frankly, I felt gaslit every single time I could not get a straight answer, so for that I say thank you. Now that Britain is standing tall on the world stage again—the United Nations was founded in Westminster in 1946, and we are applying international law without fear or favour again—how does the Foreign Secretary intend to work with Members across this House so that we can all play our part in ensuring that that institution and ours stand tall forever more?
Minister reply
If I may say so, I find the question the hon. Member asked and what she said incredibly moving, and I am very glad she asks that question. Let me say to her and Members across this House that I undertake to work together on these questions. I know that a lot of work has been going on before I became Foreign Secretary, including with Ministers, but I think there now is a real opportunity to work together across parties, and I say from this Dispatch Box that I will make sure that happens.
Question
I thank the Secretary of State for his statement, which I know has the support of British Jewish organisations such as Yachad and Progressive Judaism. I was with the Father of the House when, in an incident he has talked about, gun-wielding settlers came to visit us while we were in the west bank, and they had British accents, which is distressing. The Secretary of State said in his statement that this is a “prelude to justice”. Will the Government consider looking at universal jurisdiction so that British citizens who are supporting the illegal occupation will face the full force of the law?
Minister reply
I think we have sent a clear message today about those involved—businesses and individuals—in settlement activity. I will look at the point my hon. Friend has raised and write to him.
Bob Blackman
Con
Harrow East
Question
This is a sad day for the UK-Israel relationship, given the risks of what the Foreign Secretary is doing. Affecting the Israeli elections by making even moderate politicians even more hawkish is a huge risk. Equally, this is strengthening the Arabs’ view that suddenly they can actually destroy the state of Israel, and indeed giving a victory to the BDS movement, which will look at full sanctions. He will know that it is very difficult to differentiate between products and services on either side of the green line, and this runs the risk of a full boycott of Israeli goods. What assessment has he made of the impact of his proposal, and what discussions has he had with his opposite number in Israel?
Minister reply
There were a lot of questions there, but I really do utterly reject the premise of the hon. Member’s question, which is that this is somehow about the destruction of the state of Israel. Actually, my real fear is that the path the Israeli Government have embarked upon is undermining Israel’s security. I say to him very gently that it must be possible for us as a House, at the level of principle, to understand the difference between green-line Israel—within the 1967 borders—and the occupied territories. If we conclude that the settlements and the occupation are illegal, the right thing to do is to act.
Question
On behalf of all communities in Glasgow South West, I thank my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary and the Prime Minister for their global leadership. That leadership means we call the atrocities in the west bank terrorism and ethnic cleansing, and that we continue to support the Gazans—with full fervour—with anything they require. On Gaza, he knows that many of my NHS colleagues have worked and served there, so may I ask him to continue to support them, and to provide medical aid not only by bringing children here, but by making sure there is better infrastructure closer to home?
Minister reply
I thank my hon. Friend for the conversations we had in the run-up to this statement. I make this open offer to people across the House: the Minister for the Middle East, the hon. Member for Cardiff South and Penarth (Stephen Doughty), and I will work with Members in the run-up to the work we will do at the UN General Assembly. We have an important opportunity at UNGA to try to make a difference with the situation in Gaza. I look forward to working with him and others across the House on that question.
Question
Congratulated the Foreign Secretary on his words, highlighting the acute food insecurity in Gaza and the restrictions on essential goods, questioning the compatibility of the current interpretation of dual-use restrictions in Gaza with international humanitarian law.
Minister reply
Acknowledged the importance of the question, stating that the blocking of dual-use goods is deeply disturbing and called on Israel to stop blocking such goods.
Question
Thanked the Foreign Secretary for taking active steps and asked if he would meet with doctors to discuss preventing the targeting of health workers in Gaza.
Minister reply
Agreed to meet with the doctors and others, particularly in the run-up to the UN General Assembly (UNGA), to try to make a difference.
Kit Malthouse
Con
North West Hampshire
Question
Commended the Foreign Secretary for assertive steps, asked about the timing of the sanctions, and inquired about further steps if the current ones do not work, as well as the UK's stance on international law and the investigation into the murder of UK citizens working for the World Central Kitchen.
Minister reply
Explained the need to get the timing right to avoid hitting green-line Israel, confirmed willingness to act more quickly, and acknowledged the need for further action if necessary. Also addressed the lack of investigation into the killing of UK citizens working for World Central Kitchen.
Afzal Khan
Lab
Manchester, Gorton
Question
Welcomed the Foreign Secretary's support for the International Criminal Court's case on genocide in Gaza and asked about discussions with allies to encourage more countries to support the judicial process.
Minister reply
Confirmed strong support for the International Criminal Court and the work it does on this and other questions.
Brendan O'Hara
SNP
Argyll and Bute
Question
Welcomed the statement, questioned the effectiveness of the sanctions, and asked for confirmation that further action will be taken if Israel continues with illegal expansion.
Minister reply
Acknowledged the previous actions taken by the Government and confirmed that the sanctions regime will make a substantive difference, with the scope under review.
Question
Argued for international law to be respected and for the end of the status quo, welcomed the Foreign Secretary's words and actions, and asked about the ICC arrest warrants and UK's respect for the policy.
Minister reply
Praised the hon. Member for her work, confirmed support for the ICC and the need to uphold international law.
Mark Pritchard
Con
The Wrekin
Question
Welcomed the moral, legal and ethical stance of the Foreign Secretary, asked for action to reconcile the two-state solution and protect its viability.
Minister reply
Agreed that action is required to reconcile the two positions and protect the viability of a future two-state solution.
Question
Welcomed the steps on settlements and sanctions, arms sales, and justice, and asked for elaboration on the demand for Israel to release revenues withheld from the Palestinian Authority.
Minister reply
Acknowledged the importance of releasing funds withheld from the Palestinian Authority and confirmed that these issues are raised with Israeli counterparts.
Question
Welcomed the Foreign Secretary’s statement and asked about specific action on British companies such as JCB that facilitate destruction.
Minister reply
Acknowledged the importance of the issue and stated that the sanctions regime will be designed to prevent the construction, financing, and facilitation of settlement expansion.
Hilary Benn
Lab
Leeds Central
Question
May I congratulate my right hon. Friend on both the substance and the moral clarity of his statement today? Last weekend, Mike Huckabee, the United States ambassador to Israel, condemned Israeli settler violence as terrorism. Does my right hon. Friend therefore share the widespread concern that the IDF, rather than taking action to arrest these terrorists, is all too often to be seen watching—or even facilitating, as has been widely reported—while Palestinians’ homes are attacked and their properties seized?
Minister reply
My right hon. Friend speaks with enormous distinction on these and many other issues, and I thank him for his contribution. He is right. I urge Members in all parts of the House to read the accounts of what is happening in the west bank and what is happening in relation to the settlers. It is impossible to avoid the conclusion that members of the IDF are anything other than complicit in what is happening—episode after episode that has been documented of what is actually happening on the ground.
Desmond Swayne
Con
New Forest West
Question
I join that long list of UK Ministers who have raised, at the very highest level in Israel, the most egregious practices in the west bank, designed specifically to prevent a two-state solution, only for Israeli policy to double down. Accordingly, I congratulate the Secretary of State.
Minister reply
I thank the right hon. Gentleman for his contribution. His experience speaks to the frustration of Ministers on both sides of this House who have repeatedly tried to make a difference, pleading with Israeli Ministers to see what was going on and to act on it, and who have been rebuffed. That is what has led to today’s announcement.
Question
I hope the whole House will join me in condemning the personal attacks and smears that the Foreign Secretary faced over the weekend. [Hon. Members: “Hear, hear.”] I congratulate my right hon. Friend and the Prime Minister for the strong stance they have taken. Does he agree that the acts of violence perpetrated by the settlers in the west bank must be called out for what they are: settler terrorism designed to forcibly remove Palestinian communities?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. The world’s eyes have rightly been on the crisis in Gaza. The world’s eyes have to be on that crisis and also on the appalling settler terrorism we are seeing in the west bank. I talked about it in my statement, but the fact that a former Israeli Prime Minister described it as ethnic cleansing should give people—not just in this House, but in Israel—proper pause about what is actually happening.
Dwyfor Meirionnydd
Question
It is welcome that the UK is finally banning trade with illegal settlements in Palestine and it is right that we no longer condone economic tolerance for these settlements, which fly in the face of international law and the sovereignty of Palestine. But if the sanctions are to be truly more than symbolic, can the Secretary of State tell us how the ban will be enforced and how we will ensure that goods from illegal settlements are not simply re-labelled, or services concealed within contractual sleight of hand, to get round his proposals?
Minister reply
Like all our sanctions regimes, fines and action will be taken against companies that breach them. We are widely known across the world for the strength of our sanctions regime. It is really important to underline the point that, by using the SAMLA powers, these will be tough sanctions, and it will be absolutely clear that there will be penalties for breaching them.
Question
I strongly welcome the Government’s new sanctions, which are the right and moral approach to the crimes we have been seeing and continue to see in the west bank. The Foreign Secretary will have seen the comments from Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir that, in response to the sanctions, Israel should recognise Argentina’s claims on the Falkland Islands. Will the Foreign Secretary now make it clear that such threats will not stop the UK upholding international law and the right of people to self-determination, whether that is in the Falkland Islands or in the Occupied Palestinian Territories?
Minister reply
Obviously, those comments are absurd and wrong. The Falkland Islands are British and will remain so because that is what the islanders want. Those comments show a complete lack of understanding and comprehension of the injustice and unlawfulness that is going on in relation to the occupied territories, because it is an occupation against the will of the people there. The Falkland Islands are British, as I say, because that is what the Falkland Islanders want.
Andrew Murrison
Con
South West Wiltshire
Question
Since the Foreign Secretary is not going to get the co-operation, fulsome or otherwise, of the Israeli state in differentiating goods and services made in the settlements from those that are assembled, repackaged, produced and grown in Israel itself, how is he going to distinguish the one from the other?
Minister reply
That will be the responsibility of British businesses and other businesses that want to import into this country. I want to underline this point. That is the point of the sanctions regime we are bringing in. Just to develop the point a bit more, it is likely to be based on the postcodes of where the settlements are. Companies will have to say that the goods they are bringing in do not come from those areas.
Question
I support the Government’s complete opposition to the expansion of E1, and their opposition to the violent settlers who put the two-state solution genuinely at risk. I just want to press the Foreign Secretary further on his comments about BDS. What further specific details can he give this House that these measures will not be interpreted as support for that movement, or indeed—following on from questions from others—spill over into a de facto ban on other Israeli goods? We know that the BDS movement is supported by people who think that the Jewish people and the Jewish people alone have no right to self-determination.
Minister reply
I thank my hon. Friend for his contribution. I also thank him for the conversations we have had in the run-up to the statement; they have been important. I will say a couple of things. We absolutely oppose the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions movement against Israel. This is about settlements in the occupied territories. In answer to the question from the right hon. Member for North West Hampshire (Kit Malthouse) on why this will take six to nine months, it is precisely to get the regime right so that it does not affect or impinge on green-line Israel.
Question
I thank the Foreign Secretary for his statement. On behalf of my constituents, I am asking him not to overlook the Palestinian healthcare workers, including Dr Abu Safiya, who are being held in Israeli prisons, and for him to work to secure their release.
Minister reply
The hon. Lady raises a very, very important case, and I am glad that she has done. I am happy to look at it and will endeavour to do everything I can to make a difference.
Rushanara Ali
Lab
Bethnal Green and Bow
Question
I thank the Foreign Secretary for his incredibly moving and courageous statement. He has been a friend of Israelis and Palestinians. When he was Leader of the Opposition, he and the Labour party recognised Palestinian statehood, and I am proud of the fact that this Labour Government have recognised Palestinian statehood. We know that at least 17 companies linked to illegal Israeli settlements were found to hold 125 UK public sector contracts worth £2.1 billion, so does the Foreign Secretary agree that without sanctions, we will not be able to take the necessary action to protect a viable two-state solution and ensure that we see the day when we have a Palestinian state?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend has been an incredibly powerful advocate on the issue for a long period of time, and I welcome her words. She is absolutely right: I am afraid that inaction is simply abdicating our responsibilities for what we see happening before our eyes, and what has been eloquently described by Members on both sides of this House. That is why we have taken this action, which is designed to make a difference and help to save the two-state solution.
Question
I draw Members’ attention to my entry in the Register of Members’ Financial Interests. The middle east and north Africa contain multiple wars, protracted civil conflicts and severe humanitarian crises. Of the 193 UN member states, what exactly does the Foreign Secretary think explains the relentless focus—morning, noon and night—on the one Jewish state, a country covering just 0.01% of the world’s surface? Does he really think that all the antisemitic, Corbynista, activist crowd, and unintegrated, sectarian, immigrant groups, will again vote for his party if he panders to their unhealthy obsession?
Minister reply
I regret the tone of the hon. Gentleman’s question, honestly. He needs to take a sober look at what has happened in relation to Israel and Palestine, and what is happening in Gaza and the west bank. From Members on his own side, as well as across the House, he has heard the huge injustices eloquively described. My view is that we need to be tackling injustice across the world, but we cannot ignore the centrality of Israel and Palestine—both our historic relationship with Israel and our responsibilities, and the suffering of the Palestinian people. Frankly, in terms of our geopolitical interests, we will never have stability in the middle east without a two-state solution. For all those reasons, it is right that we act.
Question
All of us want to see an end to violence in the west bank. The Government should challenge the Israeli Government, but also the Palestinian Authority. I find myself asking, “Will these sanctions bring peace any closer and how will they impact Britain?” Given that other anti-Israel measures have failed to have the impact that the Government seek, what difference does the Secretary of State think this new round will make? Given our deep trade relationships in areas like defence and health, as well as warnings about possible conflict with US policy, is there not a risk that British interests could be harmed as a result of this announcement?
Minister reply
I think the answer to my hon. Friend’s question is no. I want to correct him on one thing: these are not anti-Israel policies. This is about the occupied territories, which we as a Government, along with the ICJ, have found were unlawfully occupied—it is really important to say that. Once we decide that it is an unlawful occupation, I do believe that, as a matter of principle and morality, then other things follow about the economic relationships that we choose to have.
Question
Ellie Chowns warmly welcomed the statement and thanked the Foreign Secretary for his actions, though she expressed concern that waiting six to nine months to implement sanctions was still too long given the ongoing genocide and ethnic cleansing in Gaza.
Minister reply
Ed Miliband thanked Ellie Chowns for her kind words and emphasised that the Government wants to implement the sanctions as quickly as possible. He stated that while the timeline is set at six to nine months, the Government will expedite the process if possible. Additionally, he highlighted the extension of the global human rights regime to international humanitarian law violations, which will allow for more rapid action.
Question
James Asser thanked the Foreign Secretary for his statement and his ongoing support for Gaza, raising concerns about the healthcare crisis in Gaza and the need for more medical aid and protection for unaccompanied children.
Minister reply
Ed Miliband thanked James Asser for raising this important issue and assured him that the Government is committed to doing as much as possible to address the healthcare crisis in Gaza. He mentioned discussions with the Jordanian Foreign Minister about an event at the UN General Assembly to move things forward and make a difference.
Jeremy Corbyn
Lab
Islington North
Question
Jeremy Corbyn thanked the campaigners for bringing about justice and peace for the Palestinian people and called for Israel to withdraw from Gaza and for the UK to end sharing of surveillance information and use of RAF facilities for Israeli military operations.
Minister reply
Ed Miliband agreed with Jeremy Corbyn's call for Israel to withdraw from Gaza and Hamas to disarm, reiterating his commitment to the 20-point plan. He emphasised that the UK is not involved in any way that would support the occupation, while also maintaining valued intelligence and security relationships with Israel.
Preet Kaur Gill
Lab
Birmingham, Edgbaston
Question
Preet Kaur Gill raised concerns about the security and confidence of Jewish communities in Birmingham Edgbaston and across the UK, particularly in light of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur approaching.
Minister reply
Ed Miliband thanked Preet Kaur Gill for her important point and emphasised the Government's commitment to the security of Jewish people across Britain. He re-emphasised that no British Jew should be held responsible for the actions of the Israeli Government and urged all Members to transmit this message to the public.
Christine Jardine
Lib Dem
Edinburgh West
Question
Christine Jardine welcomed the Foreign Secretary's remarks and commitment to a two-state solution, and asked about steps to allow UK banks and corporate institutions to audit their customer base to ensure proper supply chain handling.
Minister reply
Ed Miliband stated that the Government will look at all issues as part of the sanctions regime, emphasising the importance of protecting trade with green-line Israel and financial services within it. He also mentioned his late mother's campaigning on these issues.
Yasmin Qureshi
Lab
Bolton South East
Question
Yasmin Qureshi thanked the Foreign Secretary for his courage and leadership, and confirmed that no amount of pressure from Washington or Tel Aviv would cause the Government to retreat from doing this.
Minister reply
Ed Miliband confirmed the Government's plans and emphasised the need to decide what is in the national interest and what is the right thing for Britain based on its values.
Question
Richard Tice expressed concerns that the sanctions would embolden antisemitism against British Jews, endanger the relationship with the United States and security, and lead to tit-for-tat sanctions from the Israeli Government.
Minister reply
Ed Miliband dismissed Richard Tice's concerns as irresponsible and stated that no British Jew is responsible for the policies of the Israeli Government. He emphasised the need for clarity and responsibility in addressing antisemitism.
Debbie Abrahams
Lab
Oldham East and Saddleworth
Question
Debbie Abrahams thanked the Foreign Secretary for his statement and congratulated him on the content and tone, and asked for details on the next steps around the SAMLA statutory instrument.
Minister reply
Ed Miliband committed to proceeding with the process of making the statutory instrument happen and highlighted the need for all to take seriously the everyday experiences of British Jews and to tackle antisemitism wherever it occurs.
Andrew George
Lib Dem
St Ives
Question
Andrew George warmly welcomed the Foreign Secretary's remarks about the need for a proper investigation into the unlawful killing of those serving in the World Central Kitchen, including Cornishman Jim Henderson, and asked about sanctions against British banks and citizens complicit in the west bank.
Minister reply
Ed Miliband stated that when imposing sanctions on specific companies or entities, the Government will not name them in advance but will ensure that British companies are not involved in financing, construction, or infrastructure of settlement expansion.
Tulip Siddiq
Lab
Hampstead and Kilburn
Question
The MP thanks the Foreign Secretary for raising the plight of British Jewish children and asks about displaced children in Palestine losing access to education. She also mentions her right hon. Friend’s mother would be proud of him.
Minister reply
The minister affirms his commitment to both issues, including education access for displaced children.
Question
The MP criticises the Government for describing Israel as a strategically important partner and for continuing arms sales and intelligence cooperation, despite the ongoing conflict. She asks how many more Palestinian deaths will occur before the UK stops arming Israel.
Minister reply
The minister rejects the hon. Lady’s statement as a complete travesty and affirms that the Government are taking action on goods and services, banning arms licences for the IDF in Gaza, and declaring the occupation unlawful.
Stella Creasy
Lab
Walthamstow
Question
The MP thanks the Foreign Secretary for his commitment to a two-state solution and for clarifying that international law matters. She asks for reassurance that the ban will not be reversed unless there is a halt on the E1 development and an end to settler violence.
Minister reply
The minister reaffirms that the UK will act in its national interest based on its values and will not bend to pressure.
Question
The MP asks for assurance that the ban will not affect the supply chains for life-saving drugs made in Israel and that the supply chains for medications will not be affected.
Minister reply
The minister assures that the ban will not affect life-saving drugs made in Israel.
Question
The MP praises the Foreign Secretary for his bold, principled stand and asks if he will continue to do so with moral courage.
Minister reply
The minister affirms his commitment to standing up for the Palestinian people and meeting the Palestinian ambassador in the UK.
Sammy Wilson
DUP
East Antrim
Question
The MP criticises the Foreign Secretary for politically and economically punishing an ally, arguing that this will punish Palestinians and lead to economically damaging retaliation.
Minister reply
The minister rejects the hon. Gentleman’s points and urges him to meet the Palestinian ambassador in the UK to hear their perspective.
Alex Sobel
Lab
Leeds North West
Question
The MP asks if the Government will look at a visa-lite or visa-free regime for Gazan students wishing to come to UK universities.
Minister reply
The minister affirms that the Government will continue to look at what they can do for students from Gaza.
Question
The MP asks if the Foreign Secretary will consider sanctioning Israeli Ministers who are encouraging and endorsing violence against Palestinians.
Minister reply
The minister affirms that they have already sanctioned two Israeli Ministers and will keep their sanctions regime under review.
Clive Betts
Lab
Sheffield South East
Question
The MP asks about the Foreign Secretary's discussions with colleagues and allies in other countries who are implementing similar sanctions.
Minister reply
The minister confirms that he is in touch with his Dutch colleague and will ask if they can implement sanctions more quickly.
Question
The MP references a quote from Omar El Akkad and asks what the Foreign Secretary will do to hold war criminals accountable.
Minister reply
The minister affirms his commitment to accountability for war crimes and international law.
Richard Burgon
Lab
Leeds East
Question
The MP urges the Foreign Secretary to push forward and demand the full implementation of the ICJ ruling to ensure justice for the Palestinian people.
Minister reply
The minister affirms that the UK will be guided by international law and accountability for war crimes.
Question
The MP asks the Foreign Secretary to respond to a petition from schoolchildren in his constituency advocating for the right to education for Palestinian children.
Minister reply
The minister affirms the Government's commitment to helping Palestinian children in Gaza and the West Bank, and congratulates the children on their advocacy.
Apsana Begum
Lab
Question
I thank the Secretary of State for his statement and the long-awaited announcement, but may I press him on the UK’s existing intelligence and security partnership with Israel? Given that experts have said that RAF spy planes over Gaza and Lebanon this year have provided visuals and intelligence to the Israeli military shortly before massive air strikes, can he confirm whether the UK Government are assessing the UK’s legal position regarding the 2020 UK-Israel military co-operation agreement?
Minister reply
We do not comment on intelligence and security matters, but I can honestly assure my hon. Friend that we are not involved in the occupation or actions in Gaza and the west bank. That is not the nature of our intelligence and security co-operation with Israel.
Iqbal Mohamed
Lab
Question
May I join many hon. Members across the House in thanking the Foreign Secretary and the Prime Minister for the statement and this vital change in Government policy? However, many will ask why this action has taken so long, since the ICJ advisory opinion was issued in July 2024 and ethnic cleansing and genocide have continued both in the west bank and Gaza. Will the Foreign Secretary explain why it has taken the Labour Government so long to act? Will they now fully comply with their obligations under the ICJ advisory opinion? Will they conduct a review of British policy of non-compliance with international law in Israel?
Minister reply
I say bluntly to the hon. Member that we should have acted earlier. It has taken the new Prime Minister to come in and recognise the gravity of the situation and the degree of public concern on these questions. We concur with the ICJ’s conclusions on the unlawfulness of the occupation and we will ensure that we abide by what that implies.
Question
I thank the Secretary of State for his strong statement and extend to him the gratitude of my constituents who have already been in touch with me. I have spoken before in this place about the villagers of Jayyous in the west bank who have been living under constant intimidation and fear, with farmers unable to harvest their crops and children unable to get to school. Does he agree that the statement sends an important message to the people of Jayyous and those across Palestine that they are not alone and that their calls for solidarity and the rule of law to be upheld have been heard?
Minister reply
I feel moved by what my hon. Friend has asked. I really thank her for the work that she has been doing. As I thought long and hard about the statement and some of the words I used—one has to weigh one’s words carefully—I thought precisely that those people who are under, for example, settler terrorism and the attempts at ethnic cleansing deserve at least the truth to be told about what they are facing. So, absolutely, this is in part an expression of solidarity with the people my hon. Friend talks about.
Caroline Voaden
Lab
Question
I warmly welcome the Foreign Secretary’s statement and its tone, and especially the fact that he referred clearly to ethnic cleansing and an illegal occupation. We have to stop the E1 settlement, which is a red line for the two-state solution, so I welcome these sanctions. Although we had been told for a long time that they were not possible, it is really good to see them today. On the sanctions, there will be Israeli companies exporting from the green-line area and occupied territories; we will be relying on their honesty to declare that. Likewise, military hardware made in the UK might go to green-line Israel, but it might be deployed in the occupied territories. Will he explain how he can guarantee that the sanctions will work?
Minister reply
Let me deal with those two issues. First, one thing that I said in my statement was that the declaration on the occupation means we will now look at all arms licences to see whether they materially contribute to the occupation; if they do, they will not be allowed. Secondly, part of the point of a sanctions regime is proper enforcement, and we will do that.
Andy McDonald
Lab
Middlesbrough
Question
My father served in Gaza from 1945 to 1947, and the position was the same then: this country had failed to discharge its responsibilities to the people of Palestine. But I commend the Foreign Secretary for his statement and the courage and clarity of both him and the Prime Minister in making it. It is broadly welcomed, and massively welcomed by the Palestinian people and those who stand up for them. May I ask him to move with all pace on the regulations that he will introduce? Since the Government now acknowledge that the occupation is illegal, surely the already granted licences for arms used in the occupation should be suspended.
Minister reply
I can assure my hon. Friend on his last point: all licences that materially contribute to the occupation will not be allowed. That is why we now have a double lock in relation not only to Gaza but to the occupation. On the speed of action, we want to move as speedily as we can with these measures.
Ayoub Khan
Lab
Question
I was elected to the House not just because people saw injustice or hypocrisy from the previous Labour leadership but because this topic became a litmus test of credibility, integrity and morality for the British people, who could see what was taking place in Gaza and in the west bank. I saw the attacks on the Foreign Secretary, who was referred to as a “Jew hater” when he came out with this proposal, and the disgusting comments by the American ambassador, labelling him often as antisemitic for talking about justice and the rights of Palestinians. Will he work with colleagues on this side of the House so that we can forge stronger relationships between British Muslims and British Jews, preventing those actors and agitators—even in this House—who want to sow division in our communities?
Minister reply
I undertake to work with Members across the House on these questions; more unites us than divides us on them, and we do need to act. I say to the hon. Member and others in the House that part of acting is upholding Israel’s right to exist and its security, which includes opposing BDS, because part of being faithful to a two-state solution is upholding the rights of the Palestinian people and the Israeli people.
Sonia Kumar
Lab
Question
I welcome the statement condemning the E1 settlement project in the west bank and the sanctions. With that in mind, we must think of the Palestinians who are directly impacted and prevented from accessing basic health care; ambulances are being stopped from taking acutely unwell patients to hospital and 20,000 children have died. What steps is my right hon. Friend taking with international partners to ensure that the aggressive Israeli settlements do not prevent Palestinians from accessing healthcare?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend is right: this is a heartbreaking emergency both in the west bank and in Gaza. Part of the advocacy and the work we now want to do, including at UNGA, is about moving forward on those questions and making a difference both in Gaza and in the west bank.
Adnan Hussain
Lab
Question
I welcome the Foreign Secretary’s statement and the general shift in mood in the House. However, given that Israel as a whole—not just the illegal settlements—is on trial for genocide, should the Government not be taking all measures in their power to prevent complicity in genocide, including an immediate and comprehensive suspension of all arms transfers to Israel, an end to the sharing of all military intelligence, an end to all trade that materially supports the Israeli state or its war efforts, a reassessment of diplomatic ties and full compliance with the UK’s obligations under international law, including those as a state signatory to the genocide convention?
Minister reply
I will not answer every point that the hon. Member made. We have announced a comprehensive set of measures today. I say to him—I want to be careful in what I say—that it is very important that, as I said in my statement, our action against the occupied territories cannot be about the erasure of Israel. It is important that all of us in the House respect the role of Israel as a homeland for the Jewish people and protect its security as part of our commitment to a two-state solution.
Question
I, too, welcome these measures. We must see the Palestinian people protected and clear progress towards a two-state solution. I am proud of the Government’s stance. However, I must speak on behalf of my Jewish constituents, who have continually talked to me about the rise in antisemitism. Will the Foreign Secretary assure me that the Government will continue to work towards greater community cohesion in this country and ensure that all British Jews and all British Muslims are protected?
Minister reply
Absolutely; this must be a campaign for us all. It is about government, but truthfully it is also about us as a society—in fact, it is even more about us as a society, because the Government can do their bit, but it is about what each of us as individuals do to counter antisemitism.
Lorraine Beavers
Lab
Question
I thank the Foreign Secretary for his action today, demonstrating British leadership on a global stage; I hope he agrees that it is long overdue. Settlement expansion is a project driven by the Israeli state. Will he consider further action such as suspending the UK-Israel trade agreement?
Minister reply
We believe that trade with green-line Israel is important. We value it and we do not believe that it should be ended. It is so important in this House that we make the distinction between the occupied territories and green-line Israel.
Mohammad Yasin
Lab
Bedford
Question
I have been privileged to support Bedford Friends of Al-Walaja and to meet children who, despite the horror they have endured, are full of hopes and dreams for the future. Their village’s only school is now under threat of demolition by the Israeli authorities. I welcome the Government’s action to ban trade with illegal Israeli settlements. What intervention can the Foreign Secretary make to protect Al-Walaja co-educational school in the west bank and uphold those children’s rights to education under international law?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend raises a really important issue, and I or the Minister for the Middle East will take that up.
John Grady
Lab
Question
I welcome the Foreign Secretary’s emphasis on international law, which is important in Gaza and the west bank, but also elsewhere. In Sudan, people who have committed atrocities involving babies and children at El Fasher’s hospital must also be held to account. Will my right hon. Friend reaffirm our Government’s absolute commitment to the independence and proper resourcing of the international court?
Minister reply
Yes, absolutely. My hon. Friend is completely right.
Question
The MP commends the Foreign Secretary's strong words and actions, stressing the need for a two-state solution to bring peace to Israeli and Palestinian citizens.
Minister reply
The Minister agrees with the MP's statement, affirming the importance of the two-state solution.
Question
The MP welcomes the ban on trade with illegal settlements and urges the Israeli Government to cease expansionist actions and work towards peace.
Minister reply
The Minister agrees that a future Israeli Government should draw back from expansionist actions and change course.
Question
The MP supports the Foreign Secretary's recognition of Palestine and criticises the expansion of illegal settlements in the West Bank, emphasising the need to oppose settlement expansion and violence.
Minister reply
The Minister concurs with the MP, praising her eloquent stance on the issue.
Question
The MP commends the Foreign Secretary for his powerful speech on Palestine and urges him to continue his efforts in bringing peace to the region.
Minister reply
The Minister agrees, stating that more needs to be done in the effort to bring peace to Palestine and Israel.
Question
The MP raises concerns about the Israeli authorities' decision to not further investigate the World Central Kitchen attack and asks what more can be done to ensure accountability.
Minister reply
The Minister sends condolences and promises to discuss with the Minister for the Middle East what can be done to address the issue.
Question
The MP welcomes the sanctions against trade with occupied territories and asks about the Minister's collaboration with international colleagues to oppose illegal settlements.
Minister reply
The Minister emphasises the importance of international collaboration and coalition to make a difference on this issue.
Question
The MP highlights the collusion of the Israeli army with extremist settlers and asks for confirmation that representations are being made at the highest level.
Minister reply
The Minister confirms that he continues to urge the Israeli Government to deal with the issue of collusion.
Question
The MP pays tribute to all victims of the conflict and emphasises the importance of upholding international law and supporting institutions of international justice.
Minister reply
The Minister agrees and stresses the need to work with international partners to uphold international law.
Question
The MP supports the rights of both Israel and Palestine to exist in security and prosperity and urges the Minister to take urgent action.
Minister reply
The Minister agrees that urgent action is needed to find ways to unwind the occupation and achieve a two-state solution.
Question
The MP thanks the Foreign Secretary for his moral leadership and asks whether the Government will take action to uphold values.
Minister reply
The Minister agrees, emphasising the importance of acting on the immorality of the situation.
Question
The MP asks about preventing settler occupation in the E1 zone and dismantling settlements as part of a peaceful future.
Minister reply
The Minister agrees that the international community should do whatever it can to prevent settler occupation in the E1 zone.
Question
The MP inquires about international collaboration to address allegations of war crimes and ensure proper compilation for justice.
Minister reply
The Minister emphasises the importance of the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice in these processes.
Question
The MP asks about measures to ensure that gift aid is not given to organisations linked to Israeli settlements.
Minister reply
The Minister promises to look into the issue and thank all Members for their questions.
Shadow Comment
Thomas Tugendhat
Shadow Comment
The shadow, Thomas Tugendhat, agreed with several points made by the minister but criticised the practicality and potential negative impacts of the announced policies. He questioned the coherence of the policy, the coordination with international partners, the impact on domestic security, and the effect on security partnerships with Israel and the United States. He also inquired about the instructions given to enforcement bodies to ensure continued supply of essential drugs and the accreditation of diplomats to the Palestinian embassy. Tugendhat emphasised the growing antisemitism in the UK and the commitment to the rights of Palestinians and Israelis to live in peace. He acknowledged the intent but criticised the performative politics and lack of wide support for the policy, arguing it would damage the interests of innocent Palestinians and Israelis.
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.