Since Hamas's brutal terror attacks on 7 October, my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister and I have visited the region and have spoken and met extensively with counterparts totalling almost 20 countries, as part of our extensive diplomatic efforts to prevent escalation, to sustain the prospect of regional peace and to secure the free movement home of British nationals in Gaza and the release of hostages.

I can reassure my hon. Friend that we always ensure that UK aid money is protected from misappropriation. I can confirm to him and the House that no British aid money goes directly to the Palestinian Authority. We have raised this issue with the Palestinian Authority and highlighted our belief that it is not conducive to good relations and a future two-state solution.

The Government's long-standing position is that we oppose settlement expansion, for the reasons I have highlighted extensively in the conversations that I have had with the Israeli Government and the leadership of countries in the region. Despite the terrible circumstances we are experiencing, there is a renewed desire for a meaningful resolution that means that the terrible images that we saw on 7 October will never be repeated.

There is always much debate in this House about the interpretation of international humanitarian law. I have raised directly with my Israeli counterparts the need, in whatever actions they take to secure their protection, defend Israeli citizens and secure the release of hostages, for them to act in accordance with international law. I have received assurances from the Israeli President to that effect.

I am on record mourning the Palestinian lives that have been lost in this conflict, just as we mourn, and I mourn, the loss of Israeli lives in this terrible situation. I can assure the hon. Gentleman that the UK Government take the loss of life, from whichever community, incredibly seriously.

My hon. Friend reminds the House that the Government remain focused on the protection of British nationals in Israel, the West Bank and, of course, Gaza. It would be inappropriate for me to go into detail, but I can assure him and the House that we speak with all parties who we believe could have influence on those holding hostages: Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad and others.

I have said regularly how much I value the Abraham accords. The improving of relationships between Israel and the Arab nations in its near neighbourhood is an extremely positive step. There is a realistic belief that part of the aim of the attack of 7 October was to derail future normalisation and negotiations.

All conversations with Israel, Egypt, and intermediaries have focused on preserving human life. We completely support Israel's right to self-defence against Hamas's brutal actions, including the retrieval of video evidence showing atrocities committed by Hamas.

We support Israel's right to defend itself against rocket attacks, even if it means civilian deaths. We have grieved for Palestinian lives but must not forget Hamas's actions, including targeting Jews.

The suggestion is noted as important. Our diplomats are often best placed for negotiations, but the proposal will be taken seriously.

The Prime Minister and Development Minister have extensive talks on humanitarian aid. An additional £30 million was announced, making Britain one of the most generous contributors.

The Prime Minister and other leaders remain focused on bilateral conversations with regional leaders to secure hostage releases.

The preservation of civilian life remains a priority, and we discuss with Israel regularly to ensure they abide by international law. The goal is to prevent this from becoming a regional conflict through professionalism and restraint.

It is not my role to assess the interpretation of events. However, we are trying to ensure that Israel abides by international law in its actions for legitimate self-defence.

The hon. Gentleman's interpretation of the situation does not necessarily reflect my view; I do not agree that the UK Government has decided international humanitarian law does not apply.