Israel and Palestine 2023-05-02
2023-05-02
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP questioned recent discussions with Israel on human rights issues, prompted by ongoing tensions and incidents of violence.
Whether he has had recent discussions with his Israeli counterpart on the human rights situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. He noted concerns over security operations and called for de-escalation of tension.
Our strong bilateral relationship with Israel means that we can speak frankly about human rights issues. On 7 April, I condemned the indiscriminate rocket attacks directed at Israel and expressed condolences for the victims of a terrorist attack.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP noted a deadly year for violence in the West Bank and questioned recent conversations with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology about AI projects promoting peace.
Last year was the deadliest since 2005 and the cycle of violence continues. What recent conversations have Ministers or the Secretary of State had with their colleagues in the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on collaborative projects using cutting-edge science and artificial intelligence to encourage peace?
I will endeavour to speak with the Secretary of State or Ministers in that Department. We explore opportunities to enhance peace, whether through traditional people-to-people approach or the use of AI.
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Assessment & feedback
concrete details on discussions about AI projects and their impact
Will Endeavour
Explore
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP questioned the Foreign Secretary about the policy of the Israeli Government not pursuing a two-state solution and how discussions on trade will be used to pursue this objective.
Now that it is the policy of the Israeli Government not to pursue a two-state solution, can he explain how the discussions on trade with Israel will be used to pursue that policy objective and uphold human rights in the occupied territories?
The UK enjoys a trade relationship with both Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. We put human rights at the heart of our foreign policy when it comes to Israel and OPTs, continuing to hold our position on the desirability of a two-state solution.
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Assessment & feedback
specific details on trade discussions supporting the two-state solution
Put Human Rights At Heart
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP praised the Abraham accords as a breakthrough in diplomatic dialogue and questioned whether the Palestinian leadership should recognise changes.
Does the Foreign Secretary agree that the Abraham accords are a huge breakthrough, creating conversations between countries previously not speaking? Shouldn't the Palestinian leadership recognize these changes?
The right hon. Friend makes an important point about the changing dynamic in the region. The accords have unlocked dialogues between countries in the Arab world and Israel, formalising relationships that were perhaps informal before.
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Assessment & feedback
specific details on importance for regional security
Important Point
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP highlighted that more than 1 million worshippers visited the Temple Mount during Ramadan and questioned whether this marks Israel as an example of religious freedom.
More than 1 million worshippers were able to visit the Temple Mount, marking festivals being celebrated freely. Does this mark Israel out as a remarkable example of religious freedom?
On my visit to Israel, I saw people of all religions living their lives freely there, which is commendable. Through this rare period when three great religions celebrate significant events simultaneously, we had extensive conversations with Israeli and Palestinian leaderships.
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Assessment & feedback
specific examples or mechanisms supporting religious freedom
Seen People Of All Religions Living Freely
Response accuracy
Q6
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP noted visits by British Consulate General to Jubbet ahd-Dhib school, which is at risk of demolition, and questioned if the Secretary of State will join calls to demand reversal of such orders.
British Consulate General visited Jubbet ahd-Dhib school near Bethlehem, joined by other European missions. Considering the possibility of violence from demolitions, can the Secretary of State join calls to reverse demolition orders?
We regularly raise sensitive issues with Israel, including settlements and evictions. We condemn demolitions as illegal under international law, limiting success chances for a two-state solution.
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Assessment & feedback
specific steps being taken to protect viability of a two-state solution
Regularly Raise
Condemn
Response accuracy