Israeli Hostages in Gaza 2024-03-12

2024-03-12

TAGS
Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Direct Answer
Bob Blackman Con
Harrow East
Context
British hostages have been held captive for over 100 days. The New York Times reported that of the 134 hostages, 50 may have been killed. Israel has faced similar situations with hostage scenarios lasting over a decade.
The hostages have been in captivity for more than 100 days. Given that 10 Israeli citizens have been in captivity in Gaza for more than 10 years, does my right hon. Friend the Minister agree that there must absolutely be a commitment to return the hostages before we can move to a humanitarian ceasefire?
Yes, my hon. Friend is absolutely correct. It is a top focus of all parts of the British Government to try to get the hostages back. We are working closely with the US, Qatar and Egypt to secure their release.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Context
The UN published a report indicating systematic rape, gang rape, and genital mutilation of Israeli women and girls. Survivors distrust the UN enough to speak about their experiences.
What will my right hon. Friend the Minister do to urge the UN to rebuild trust with victims and document sexual violence against Jewish women?
We will do everything we can as a leading member of the United Nations to try to improve that relationship. We seek to document atrocities so people can be held accountable, no matter how long it takes.
Assessment & feedback
Did not specify concrete actions or timelines for rebuilding trust with victims
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Bob Blackman Con
Harrow East
Context
Civilian casualties are high in the ongoing conflict. Sexual violence against women is a significant issue.
What are our atrocity prevention team and preventing sexual violence team doing on the ground to document and stop atrocities?
We seek to document atrocities so that people can be held accountable. Additional funding is specifically aimed at helping women who have experienced sexual violence.
Assessment & feedback
Did not specify concrete actions or timelines for stopping atrocities on the ground
Response accuracy
Q4 Partial Answer
Sarah Champion Lab
Rotherham
Context
The conflict involves civilian casualties on both sides, raising questions about international law adherence.
If Israel has the capacity to meet international law, is it not in breach of it given the ongoing conflict?
The current judgment of the British Government is that Israel has both the capacity and intent to abide by international humanitarian law. We keep this under review.
Assessment & feedback
Did not confirm or deny breach, just stated ongoing review
Response accuracy
Q5 Partial Answer
Andrew Gwynne Ind
Gorton and Denton
Context
British hostages have been held captive by Hamas in Gaza.
What steps is the Minister taking to support efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas?
We have been working tirelessly since 7 October to secure the release of all hostages, including British nationals. We work closely with partners like the US, Qatar and Egypt.
Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific actions or commitments beyond general statement
Response accuracy