Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The UK is concerned about Iran's influence through proxies, which has been a source of regional instability.
What steps her Department plans to take to counter Iran's destabilising use of proxies in the middle east. The hostility with Iran has caused even greater friendship between Arab countries and Israel, so should the Government follow US actions by moving the British embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem?
The UK maintains a range of sanctions to constrain IRGC activity. The British embassy in Israel is in Tel Aviv, but there may be a review possibility. We do not routinely comment on proscription considerations for the IRGC.
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Assessment & feedback
specific steps to counter proxy wars and embassy move from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem
We Do Not Routinely Comment
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The UK previously resisted banning Hezbollah but was pressured to act. The questioner seeks urgent action against the IRGC.
I hope that the Minister will recognise the IRGC's role in destabilising proxy wars and show more urgency in joining allies by proscribing the IRGC, similar to how we banned Hezbollah under pressure from this House.
The UK maintains sanctions against the IRGC and regularly reviews the list of proscribed organisations, but does not comment on ongoing considerations for the IRGC's proscription.
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Assessment & feedback
proscription of the IRGC
We Do Not Routinely Comment
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The UK has a thriving bilateral relationship with Israel, but the questioner asks about moving the British embassy to Jerusalem.
Given the improved friendship between Arab countries and Israel, is it time for Britain to move its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem like some other countries have done?
The UK and Israel share a thriving relationship, but I am aware of the possibility of a review regarding the British embassy's location in Tel Aviv, without further speculation on this point.
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Assessment & feedback
moving the embassy to Jerusalem
Will Not Speculate
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The questioner criticises Iran's leaders as clerical fascists and demands a ban on the IRGC similar to Hezbollah.
Why can we not just get on with it and ban the IRGC, as we banned Hezbollah?
I have been clear about sanctions to constrain IRGC activity. I will not comment further on proscription of this group.
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Assessment & feedback
banning the IRGC
Will Not Comment
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
The questioner warns about Iran's continued sponsorship of terror, linking it to its ballistics program and nuclear ambitions.
Does my right hon. Friend agree that any revised nuclear deal with Iran should be accompanied by strong measures against it being the world's largest sponsor of terrorism?
We have concerns about Iran's instability and advanced nuclear programme. The joint comprehensive plan of action may collapse, leading to careful consideration of options with partners and allies if no deal is struck soon.
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Assessment & feedback
strong measures in a revised nuclear deal
Will Consider Carefully
Response accuracy