Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Israeli Settler Violence: Sanctions

Tuesday 26 November 2024 · 6 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 1 Partly answered 5 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Minister sanctioned entities linked to violent extremism in the West Bank in October.
  • The Government continues to explore tougher sanctions but will not speculate on future actions.
  • The Foreign Secretary supports the International Criminal Court's jurisdiction and will co-operate fully.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Clive Betts Lab Sheffield South East
Foreign Affairs
Context

Settler violence in the West Bank is a significant issue. In October, sanctions were imposed on entities linked to this violence.

Question

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?

Answer from David Lammy

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.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not specify plans for extending sanctions against Israeli Ministers specifically

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Q2 Clive Jones Lib Dem Wokingham
Foreign Affairs
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.

Question

Given settlement expansion hinders Middle East peace, will he commit today to considering sanctions against Ministers Ben-Gvir and Smotrich who promote extremist views?

Answer from David Lammy

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.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not commit specifically to considering sanctions on Ben-Gvir and Smotrich

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Q3 Clive Betts Lab Sheffield South East
Foreign Affairs
Context

Israeli Ministers are encouraging settler violence and calling for West Bank annexation. Previous sanctions were discussed without clear commitment to further action.

Question

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?

Answer from David Lammy

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.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not explicitly recognise the threat of annexation or support for a Palestinian state

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Q4 Tom Morrison Lib Dem Cheadle
Foreign Affairs
Context

International law is crucial for global peace and security, including the role of the International Criminal Court.

Question

Does the Government support the ICC's jurisdiction and will they co-operate fully to ensure its work is not obstructed?

Answer from David Lammy

Yes, 100%.

Answered
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Q5 Emily Thornberry Lab Islington South and Finsbury
Foreign Affairs
Context

Previous Foreign Secretary considered potential sanctions against Ministers promoting settler violence. A decision has not been made yet.

Question

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?

Answer from David Lammy

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.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not provide any update or timeline for deciding sanctions on Ben-Gvir and Smotrich

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Q6 Calum Miller Lib Dem Bicester and Woodstock
Foreign Affairs
Context

Finance Minister Smotrich's comments advocating West Bank annexation have reinforced the idea that some Israeli Cabinet members oppose a two-state solution.

Question

Given Finance Minister Smotrich's comments and continuing devastation in Gaza, does the Foreign Secretary agree now is the time to recognise Palestine?

Answer from David Lammy

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.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not explicitly agree to recognise Palestine now

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