Israeli Settler Violence Sanctions 2024-11-26
2024-11-26
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Settler violence in the West Bank is a significant issue. In October, sanctions were imposed on entities linked to this violence.
I am concerned about settler violence in the West Bank and the impact of Israeli Ministers' actions. Whether he plans to extend existing sanctions in response?
I have been very clear on this issue. In October, I sanctioned entities linked to violent extremism in the West Bank. We continue to explore all options for tougher action but will not speculate about future sanctions.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not specify plans for extending sanctions against Israeli Ministers specifically
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Settlement expansion and violence in the Occupied Palestinian Territories are major obstacles to peace. In October, the Foreign Secretary committed to acting against violent extremists.
Given settlement expansion hinders Middle East peace, will he commit today to considering sanctions against Ministers Ben-Gvir and Smotrich who promote extremist views?
I have sanctioned entities like Amana settler group, a religious school promoting violence against Jews, and a non-governmental organisation aiding illegal outposts. We are concerned by the expansion and rhetoric but continue to consider sanctions policy.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not commit specifically to considering sanctions on Ben-Gvir and Smotrich
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Israeli Ministers are encouraging settler violence and calling for West Bank annexation. Previous sanctions were discussed without clear commitment to further action.
The Israeli Ministers named encourage settler violence and advocate for West Bank annexation. Does my right hon. Friend recognise the threat of annexation and support an independent Palestinian state?
I commend my hon. Friend's position on this issue. Annexation would be illegal, and we stand opposed to it. We will continue to speak out against illegal violence and expansion by settlers.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not explicitly recognise the threat of annexation or support for a Palestinian state
Response accuracy
Q4
Direct Answer
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Context
International law is crucial for global peace and security, including the role of the International Criminal Court.
Does the Government support the ICC's jurisdiction and will they co-operate fully to ensure its work is not obstructed?
Yes, 100%.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
Previous Foreign Secretary considered potential sanctions against Ministers promoting settler violence. A decision has not been made yet.
Before the last election, the Foreign Office was working up potential sanctions against Ben-Gvir and Smotrich. When might a decision be made on these Ministers?
I think the previous Foreign Secretary was wrong to discuss potential sanctions that were not implemented. I will not get drawn on current sanctions policy but am pleased my right hon. Friend is raising important issues.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide any update or timeline for deciding sanctions on Ben-Gvir and Smotrich
Response accuracy
Q6
Partial Answer
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Context
Finance Minister Smotrich's comments advocating West Bank annexation have reinforced the idea that some Israeli Cabinet members oppose a two-state solution.
Given Finance Minister Smotrich's comments and continuing devastation in Gaza, does the Foreign Secretary agree now is the time to recognise Palestine?
Yesterday at the G7 meeting, Foreign Ministers discussed this issue and were united in condemning any suggestion of annexation. We would stand against such moves.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not explicitly agree to recognise Palestine now
Response accuracy