Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories

Thursday 6 February 2025 · 31 questions

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 18 Partly answered 13 Not answered 0

Key points

  • UK is opposed to forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza and supports their right to return and rebuild.
  • UK Government is working closely with partners to push for humanitarian access and support hostage releases as per agreement phases.
  • UK is concerned about the situation in Jenin and continues to monitor the area carefully, calling for an end to illegal settlement expansion on Palestinian land.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Andy McDonald Lab Middlesbrough and Thornaby East
Asylum & Refugees
Context

Following 16 months of conflict, Andy McDonald raised concerns about recent statements by US President Trump that suggest a plan to move Palestinians from Gaza to neighbouring Arab states. He highlighted the risks this poses to peace efforts.

Question

Following 16 months of bloodshed and a welcome temporary ceasefire, Andy McDonald questioned the implications of recent statements by the US President suggesting plans for the forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza. He noted that these remarks have emboldened Israeli officials, raised fears in neighbouring Arab states, and could jeopardize the peace process. He specifically mentioned the US's resumption of arms shipments to Israel, its withdrawal from the UN Human Rights Council, and recent IDF operations in the West Bank. McDonald asked if the UK will reject such proposals as a breach of international law and advocate for Palestinian statehood based on 1967 borders.

Answer from The Minister for Development (Anneliese Dodds)

Responding to Andy McDonald's concerns, Anneliese Dodds confirmed that the UK is clear in its opposition to forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza and supports their right to return home and rebuild. She reiterated that UNRWA must continue operating in Gaza and on the West Bank for Palestinian refugees. Dodds emphasized the importance of de-escalation following recent developments, especially concerning the situation in Jenin. Regarding recognition of a Palestinian state, she affirmed that Palestinians have the right to their own sovereign state and the UK is determined to work towards this goal at an appropriate time conducive to achieving a two-state solution.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q2 Wendy Morton Con Aldridge-Brownhills
Foreign Affairs
Context

Following the ceasefire, there are concerns about the release of hostages and the distribution of humanitarian aid in Gaza. The MP references the tragic news that eight hostages will not return home alive.

Question

The ceasefire remains fragile with a long road ahead; I call for the Government to do everything possible to push for humanitarian access and support hostage releases as per the agreement phases. Can you provide clarity on how the UK is formally responding, beyond calls for investigation? Additionally, what are the turnaround times for British aid reaching Gaza, metrics used for monitoring distribution, and have there been any changes in aid types since the ceasefire?

Answer from Anneliese Dodds

I am grateful to the right hon. Lady for all her questions. The Government is working closely with partners to push for humanitarian access and support hostage releases as per the agreement phases. UNRWA has been called upon for independent investigation of misuse allegations, and we continue to work with them to ensure thorough investigations and necessary changes are made. UK aid turnaround times have improved but commercial shipments need to be enabled quickly for food supplies; we monitor distribution closely through trusted partners including UN agencies. We need access for tents, shelter, medical supplies among others due to destruction in water and sanitation areas.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q3 Laura Kyrke-Smith Lab Aylesbury
Foreign Affairs
Context

There has been an increase in violence on the west bank following a fragile peace agreement in Gaza, with parts of Jenin refugee camp being destroyed and thousands forcibly displaced. UNRWA services have also been interrupted.

Question

The situation in Jenin is causing concern due to destruction by Israeli security forces, disruption of UNRWA services, and forced displacement of Palestinians. What measures are being taken to ensure safety for Palestinians on the west bank?

Answer from Anneliese Dodds

I am grateful to my hon. Friend for raising this issue. The UK is concerned about the situation in Jenin, which we continue to monitor carefully. We called on Israel at the UN Security Council meeting on 18 December to stop illegal settlement expansion on Palestinian land and are considering all options for further action.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q4 Phil Brickell Lab Bolton West
Foreign Affairs
Context

The question is prompted by the destruction of infrastructure in Gaza, which has left many Palestinians homeless and without essential services. The UK's position on supporting reconstruction efforts under international law is questioned.

Question

Vast swathes of infrastructure in Gaza have been destroyed. What work are the Government undertaking on supporting the Palestinian people to rebuild their homes and communities, as is their right under international law?

Answer from Anneliese Dodds (The Minister for Development)

This is a critical issue. Of course, we need the ceasefire to be held to. As I said, we have to move through phase 1 to phases 2 and 3, but we also need to ensure that there is day-after-next-phase planning in Gaza, so that we can see the building up of Gaza’s governance and security institutions and, of course, infrastructure. We are clear that Gaza’s recovery and reconstruction must be Palestinian-led. We have supported the Palestinian Authority in particular on this. I am very proud that UK expertise has been supporting that work, so that this important reconstruction can continue at the required pace and scale.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The answer did not provide specific details about practical support being provided by the UK government towards rebuilding efforts.

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q5 David Mundell Con Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale
NHS Foreign Affairs
Context

The Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza has reopened for medical emergencies. This is causing pressure on the Egyptian health service and raises concerns about civil unrest due to the influx of Palestinians.

Question

What practical support are the Government giving to Egypt now that the Rafah crossing has reopened for medical emergencies? When that happened previously, it put enormous pressure on the Egyptian health service and caused some civil unrest in Egypt. As the right hon. Lady knows, Egypt is also under pressure on its southern border due to the conflict in Sudan. Does she agree that support for Egypt at this critical time is very important?

Answer from Anneliese Dodds (The Minister for Development)

I am grateful to the right hon. Gentleman for underlining Egypt’s role in this incredibly difficult humanitarian situation, and particularly in relation to medical evacuees from Gaza. He is also right to underline that Egypt is now housing many refugees from Sudan too. I reassure the right hon. Gentleman that the UK is seeking to work with Egypt. We have supported the Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population with £1 million, delivered through WHO Egypt, to support medically evacuated Palestinians from Gaza. We are exploring further support for the Egyptian system, which is gearing up to receive large numbers of medical evacuees.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The answer did not provide a clear commitment or timeline for additional support beyond the £1 million already allocated.

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q6 Imran Hussain Lab Bradford East
Foreign Affairs
Context

The situation in Gaza is deteriorating, with a ceasefire hanging by a thread and plans for the demolition of buildings. The UK’s diplomatic response and stance on international law are questioned.

Question

With 61,000 Palestinians killed, the ceasefire hanging by a thread, and now a blueprint to ravage Gaza, ethnically cleanse Palestinians and resettle the land, where exactly have diplomacy and refusing to sanction Israel led us? Palestinians are now facing mass expulsion, reoccupation and resettlement, all while the international rules-based order has been ripped to shreds. The world is watching, so let us be clear in this House that the UK’s reaction to this brazen attempt to further rip up international law will echo for generations.

Answer from Anneliese Dodds (The Minister for Development)

I believe it has been incredibly important for the UK to engage diplomatically in relation to this conflict. It is absolutely right that we have sought to work with partners on these issues, that we have supported statements within the UN Security Council, that we have worked with partners in the region, that we have sought to achieve change, and that we sought to ensure the ceasefire was agreed.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The answer did not provide specific actions or commitments beyond diplomatic engagement.

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q7 Kit Malthouse Con North West Hampshire
Foreign Affairs
Context

The right hon. Member questions the effectiveness of diplomatic efforts and calls for a clear stance on the rights of Palestinians under international law.

Question

Does the Minister accept that we got here after 16 months of weakness and vacillation by both this Government and the previous Government? As we contemplate the hundreds of thousands of people who are returning to their homes to dig out their relatives from under the rubble, the welcome return of the hostages, and the 40,000-odd orphans—and even more amputees—does she recognise that the hot air we have heard from both Governments, frankly, got us to a situation in which the Israelis are demolishing buildings in Jenin with people still inside and in which the President of the United States is openly contemplating the forcible transfer of Palestinians? If the right hon. Lady accepts that vacillation, will she confirm a couple of things for the avoidance of doubt? First, are Arabs, and Palestinians in particular, entitled to the same protections under international law as everybody else?

Answer from Anneliese Dodds (The Minister for Development)

As the right hon. Member is aware and as we have discussed previously, this UK Government have taken a different approach from the previous Government on matters of accountability. We were very clear that the UK’s arms export regime had to be held to and operated in line with international humanitarian law. That underwrote the decisions we took in the autumn: we said we would examine that regime and deliver on it, and we examined that regime and suspended a number of licences.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The answer did not provide confirmation or clarification regarding protections for Palestinians under international law.

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q8 Paul Waugh Labour (Co-op) Rochdale
Foreign Affairs
Context

The question follows TV footage showing Palestinians returning to their homes in Gaza after displacement. The context is the ongoing crisis in Gaza and the need for international legal frameworks to be respected.

Question

Paul Waugh noted powerful television footage of Palestinian men, women, and children walking back to northern Gaza. He highlighted the anger among Palestinians regarding the existence of their homeland being subject to colonial powers. Paul Waugh asked if the Minister agrees with the UN Secretary-General that staying true to international law is essential to avoid ethnic cleansing.

Answer from Anneliese Dodds (The Minister for Development)

Anneliese Dodds confirmed that the UK has an unshakable policy on the right of return and the rebuilding of homes and lives. She reiterated that the UK's commitment to international law is clear, as restated by the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q9 Wendy Chamberlain Lib Dem North East Fife
Economy Foreign Affairs
Context

The context is an ongoing impact assessment by the UK Government on the US decision regarding USAID, particularly in relation to the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Question

Wendy Chamberlain thanked the Minister for confirming that the impact assessment of the US Government’s decision about USAID is ongoing. She asked whether the Government should consider a return to 0.7% of gross national income (GNI) for overseas development assistance.

Answer from Anneliese Dodds (The Minister for Development)

Dodds stated that her party and the Government are determined to return to spending 0.7% of GNI on overseas development as fiscal circumstances allow. She emphasized the importance of playing a part in humanitarian questions and working in partnership with other countries.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q10 Zubir Ahmed Lab Glasgow South West
NHS Children & Families
Context

The context is the psychological and physical damage experienced by children returning to their homes in Gaza. The question highlights the need for support from the British state.

Question

Dr Ahmed referenced the Prime Minister's statement regarding the absolute right of Gazans to return to their land, highlighting concerns about the unprecedented number of psychologically and physically damaged children. He asked what can be done to help these children.

Answer from Anneliese Dodds (The Minister for Development)

Dodds acknowledged Dr Ahmed's concern regarding the medical expertise and the impact on children. She stated that the UK has been acting to ensure support for these vulnerable children, engaging in urgent discussions with partners to address psychosocial trauma.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q11 Bob Blackman Con Harrow East
Foreign Affairs
Context

The context is the release of some hostages, highlighting that Hamas remains in control despite these releases. The question focuses on a counter proposal for governance arrangements in Gaza without Hamas involvement.

Question

Blackman noted welcome news about hostage releases but highlighted the continued presence and control of Hamas over Gaza's infrastructure and safety concerns. He asked what reasonable and achievable proposals the British Government will present to ensure that the Palestinian people can return safely, terror tunnels are destroyed, and Hamas does not govern Gaza.

Answer from Anneliese Dodds (The Minister for Development)

Dodds shared the hon. Member's concern and emphasized that the UK Government has been clear that Hamas must not be involved in future governance arrangements. She highlighted the support provided to the Palestinian Authority through reform programs and reconstruction efforts.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q12 Sarah Coombes Lab West Bromwich
Asylum & Refugees
Context

The context is the need for a safe Palestine alongside Israel, with an emphasis on no forced displacement. The question addresses the focus on supporting a ceasefire and rebuilding efforts in Gaza.

Question

Coombes acknowledged the nightmare Palestinians have experienced over 14 months and emphasized the need for a safe Palestine alongside Israel without forced displacement of Gazans. She asked about how the UK is focusing on supporting a ceasefire and the rebuilding of Gaza.

Answer from Anneliese Dodds (The Minister for Development)

Dodds stated that the UK has been investing in the ceasefire, announcing additional humanitarian support for essential services. She highlighted a phased approach towards reconstruction and ultimately achieving a two-state solution.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q13 Dave Doogan SNP Angus and Perthshire Glens
Foreign Affairs
Context

The context is the perceived ethnic cleansing implications of US President's statements. The question addresses UK Government's stance on these allegations and long-standing international inaction.

Question

Doogan highlighted the lack of change from US State Department’s rowback despite the President’s statement implying ethnic cleansing. He asked for confirmation if the UK sees this plan as ethnic cleansing, what they understand it to be, and how they will address the 50-year vacuum of inaction regarding Palestinians.

Answer from Anneliese Dodds (The Minister for Development)

Dodds reiterated the UK’s decisions that differ from previous governments, including clear stances on international legal bodies’ jurisdiction. She highlighted efforts like removing UNWRA funding bans and supporting moves at the UN Security Council towards a two-state solution.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q14 Rachel Hopkins Lab Luton South and South Bedfordshire
Asylum & Refugees
Context

The UK has imposed sanctions against Israeli settlers involved in violence. The questioner is concerned about continued settler violence and seeks assurance that these sanctions will not be lifted.

Question

Yesterday, we welcomed the Prime Minister’s comments about how the Palestinians must be allowed home and must be allowed to rebuild. We should be with them in that rebuild and on the way to a two-state solution, yet settler violence against Palestinians continues to increase. Will the Minister confirm that this Government have no intention of lifting the sanctions that the UK has imposed on Israeli settlers and will the Government even consider expanding them?

Answer from Anneliese Dodds

My hon. Friend will be aware that the UK has imposed—I believe it was in the autumn—sanctions against those who had engaged in and promoted violence as settlers. We condemn that activity and believe that it reduces the prospect of a two-state solution. Of course, for me to talk about future sanctions designations from the Dispatch Box would reduce their efficacy, and therefore I will not do that here.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not confirm explicitly whether sanctions will be expanded or lifted without discussing efficacy concerns

How: For Me To Talk About Future Sanctions Designations From The Dispatch Box Would Reduce Their Efficacy

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q15 Alec Shelbrooke Con Wetherby and Easingwold
Community Security Foreign Affairs
Context

The UK Government are concerned about Iran’s support for militia groups that threaten regional stability. The questioner asks about actions taken against Iran.

Question

I thank the Minister for the clarity of her answers today. We are all aware that Iran played a major role through its antisemitic regime in funding Hamas and Hezbollah, with the stated aim of destroying the state of Israel. If there is to be faith in the reconstruction of Gaza, people who want to do that will have to have faith that there is a secure situation. The attitude of this White House towards Iran is different from the previous one. What action are the Government taking and how are they involved in ensuring that Iran is not able to re-establish itself to fund and arm the groups that specifically want to destroy the state of Israel?

Answer from Anneliese Dodds

I am grateful to the right hon. Member for his comments. The UK Government are clear that Iran has long destabilised the middle east. That has obviously been done through military means, but it has also given financial and political support to its proxies and partners, including Iranian-aligned militia groups in Iraq and Syria, Hezbollah in Lebanon, which he mentioned, and the Houthis in Yemen. We will continue to work with international partners to encourage de-escalation. Long-term peace and security in the middle east cannot be achieved without addressing Iran’s destabilising activity—the UK Government are clear on that.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not provide specific details of actions taken by the government against Iran

How: We Will Continue To Work With International Partners

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q16 Richard Burgon Lab Leeds East
Community Security Foreign Affairs
Context

The UK Government have imposed sanctions on certain military exports to Israel. The questioner asks for further measures including a ban on Israeli settlement goods entering the country.

Question

Trump has lifted the lid on Israel’s real plan: the ethnic cleansing—the forced displacement—of Palestinians. Nobody can claim any longer that they did not know or do not know what is going on: a genocide. All the warm words in the world about a two-state solution will not stop it; only sanctions will, as the world’s top court demands. That means bans on Israeli settlement goods entering this country. It means sanctions on trade and an arms embargo. Without doing that, people in this House will never be able to say that we did everything we could to stop these crimes that will echo down the generations. Will the Minister confirm that the Government will finally treat Israel as they have rightly treated Russia and impose widespread sanctions?

Answer from Anneliese Dodds

On my hon. Friend’s question about forced displacement, I was very clear earlier about the fact that the UK Government are absolutely determined to ensure that there is not forced displacement. That would be contrary to international law. Gazans must be allowed home and, in the words of the Prime Minister himself,<br/>“must be allowed to rebuild”.—[Official Report, 5 February 2025; Vol. 761, c. 745.] My hon. Friend asked about the situation in relation to arms exports. He will be aware that on 2 September we suspended a number of export licences to Israel for use in military operations in Gaza, and I refer him to my previous response on sanctions designations.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not confirm imposition of further sanctions measures like bans on Israeli settlement goods or an arms embargo

How: I Refer Him To My Previous Response On Sanctions Designations

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q17 Ellie Chowns Green North Herefordshire
Foreign Affairs
Context

The UK Government have been clear about condemning actions that undermine the two-state solution. The questioner seeks clarity on recognizing Palestine and condemning President Trump’s comments.

Question

President Trump’s comments earlier this week were grossly irresponsible and dangerous. Does the Minister recognise that forcible displacement of a population under occupation constitutes ethnic cleansing and is a war crime? Will she clearly and unequivocally condemn the remarks of President Trump? Will she recognise the state of Palestine, as an essential step to the long-term sustainable peace that she has articulated support for?

Answer from Anneliese Dodds

As I mentioned just a few seconds ago, we have been clear that any attempt to prevent Gazans from returning home to their communities, and to suggest that they must remain and be housed in other Arab states, would be contrary to international law. I am sure that the hon. Lady understands that. Not only has she heard me say it, but she heard the Prime Minister say it yesterday, and the Foreign Secretary has said it many times. The hon. Lady asks about our approach to recognition. I agree with her that the lever of recognition is important and will be crucial for the two-state solution, which will be so important to peace in the region. That is why the UK is so carefully considering how we go about that; we know that ultimately both Israelis and Palestinians have the right to live in sovereign states, in security, and we will ensure that our actions are as strong as possible to get us to that outcome.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not clearly confirm recognizing Palestine but agreed it was crucial for peace

How: We Know That Ultimately Both Israelis And Palestinians Have The Right To Live In Sovereign States

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q18 Jon Pearce Lab High Peak
Foreign Affairs
Context

The UK has committed to taking a lead on an international fund for peace between Israelis and Palestinians. The questioner seeks updates on the progress of this initiative.

Question

I very much welcome the Minister’s unequivocal commitment to a two-state solution. The Government are right to reject anything that risks undermining the ceasefire and the release of the remaining hostages. However, no top-down political solution will be sustainable unless we build trust between Israeli and Palestinian communities and support the peacebuilders of the future. The Prime Minister has committed the UK to taking a lead on an international fund for peace between Israelis and Palestinians. Will the Minister provide an update on the progress that has been made on that fund?

Answer from Anneliese Dodds

I am grateful to my hon. Friend for what he said about the clarity of the UK’s position. I know that he and many others in the Chamber are passionate about peacebuilding. That is an area in which the UK has a certain amount of expertise, derived from those who have been peacebuilding in Northern Ireland and other contexts, and it is important that we seek to contribute to it. Of course, the most urgent thing is to ensure that the ceasefire is held to and that we move from phase 1 to phase 2 to phrase 3. Of course, in future it will be important to do what we can to contribute to peacebuilding. He is right about the Prime Minister’s announcement; we are right now considering how we can ensure that that is delivered.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not provide a specific update on progress of the fund but acknowledged its importance

How: We Are Right Now Considering How We Can Ensure That That Is Delivered

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q19 Robbie Moore Con Keighley and Ilkley
Foreign Affairs
Context

Dr Hussam Abu Safiya has been detained by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF). The questioner seeks information on meetings held with Israeli authorities to address this issue.

Question

Many constituents, including Maggie Gardiner, have kindly contacted me about their deep concern for the wellbeing of Dr Hussam Abu Safiya, who has been detained by the IDF. I have written to the Foreign Secretary about that, and I know that the Government have raised the issue with the Israeli authorities. What explanation has been received in those meetings, and what further work is the Foreign Secretary undertaking to obtain more details on that important case?

Answer from Anneliese Dodds

I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman’s constituent for raising that important issue, which many Members and the general public are concerned about, as he says. As he rightly states, the UK Government have raised that issue with Israeli counterparts. We are concerned about the situation. We believe that there needs to be clarity on why any individuals, including medical staff, are being held. It is also crucial that the Red Cross is able to visit those who have been detained. We have made that point very forcefully.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not provide specific details of explanations received or further work planned

How: We Are Concerned About The Situation

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q20 Andy Slaughter Lab Hammersmith and Chiswick
Foreign Affairs
Context

MP expressed concern over IDF military operations, attacks from Palestinian militants, civilian casualties, destruction of infrastructure, threat of ethnic cleansing.

Question

Since the ceasefire in Gaza, there has been open warfare against civilians in the west bank, dehumanising of the whole Palestinian population, and the threat of ethnic cleansing through a second Nakba. Surely we can expect a proportionate response from the UK Government, starting with the advisory opinion, recognition and the banning of trade with settlements.

Answer from The Minister for Development (Anneliese Dodds)

We are deeply concerned by the intensity of IDF military operations in the west bank, as well as by attacks from Palestinian militants. We recognise Israel’s need to defend itself against security threats, but we are deeply worried about the methods that Israel has employed and about reports of civilian casualties and the destruction of civilian infrastructure. We are clear that it is in no one’s interest to see further conflict and instability.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q21 Christine Jardine Lib Dem Edinburgh West
Community Security Foreign Affairs
Context

MP welcomed the commitment to oppose Trump's approach but was disappointed that recognition of Palestine wasn't committed to. MP also raised concerns about abuse since 7 October 2023.

Question

I welcome the commitment that the Minister has given the House and the determination to show our opposition to Trump’s disgraceful approach, but I am disappointed that she does not see this as the ideal moment to commit to recognising the state of Palestine. What is being done across Government to reassure the communities in this country who have suffered outrageous abuse since 7 October 2023?

Answer from The Minister for Development (Anneliese Dodds)

I want to underline to the hon. Lady that, as we have made very clear, Palestinian statehood is the right of the Palestinian people—it is not in the gift of any neighbour—and is essential to the long-term security of Israel as well. The UK is working with partners to support a path to long-term peace and stability with a two-state solution. We condemn all forms of abuse, including antisemitism, Islamophobia, and hate crimes.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q22 Brian Leishman Lab Alloa and Grangemouth
Foreign Affairs
Context

MP raised concerns about economic activities contributing to the sustainability of illegal settlements, undermining Palestinian rights, and complicity in international crimes.

Question

How do the Government address Amnesty International’s concerns that economic activities with illegal Israeli settlements contribute to both their sustainability and their growth, thus undermining Palestinians’ rights, and that business enterprises involved with Israel’s illegal settlements may be involved and complicit in international crimes?

Answer from The Minister for Development (Anneliese Dodds)

We are very clear that Israeli efforts to undermine a two-state solution through settlement building, settler violence and punitive economic measures are unacceptable. We are aware that settlement expansion reached record levels in the past year, which was very disturbing, and of course it has been accompanied by an increase in settler violence. Our position on this issue has been clear: settlements are illegal under international law; they present an obstacle to peace and threaten the physical viability of a two-state solution.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q23 Matt Western Lab Warwick and Leamington
Foreign Affairs
Context

MP discussed the fragility of the current ceasefire, expansionism by Israel, bombings in Jenin, and expansion into southern Lebanon. MP urged the government to lead with a new resolution at the UN.

Question

The current ceasefire is clearly welcome, but it is fragile, given that Israel seems determined to pursue a policy of expansionism. We have seen the bombings in Jenin and the expansion into southern Lebanon, as well as into the buffer zone of the Golan heights, and Israel will only be emboldened by the irresponsible ramblings of the new US President. Does the Minister agree that we are witnessing ethnic cleansing, and can I urge the UK Government to lead at the United Nations with a new resolution for a Marshall plan to ensure the rebuilding of Gaza on the terms of the Palestinian people?

Answer from The Minister for Development (Anneliese Dodds)

I am grateful to my hon. Friend for raising the issue of the role that the UK can play in the recovery and rebuilding of Gaza. As I mentioned, we have been working with a range of partners on that issue, seeking to support the Palestinian Authority and contributing experts to their endeavours. We are looking very closely at the World Bank’s updated damage assessment and will seek to work with the World Bank and other partners.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q24 Ben Lake PC Ceredigion Preseli
Foreign Affairs
Context

MP discussed the importance of upholding international law, rules-based order, and addressing breaches by permanent members of the UN Security Council.

Question

Any proposal that would oversee the forcible transfer of the entire population of Gaza would clearly constitute an egregious breach of international humanitarian law, but it would also amount to ethnic cleansing. The Government have previously emphasised the importance of a rules-based international order underpinned by adherence to international humanitarian law, but how do they hope to defend and strengthen that order when yet another permanent member of the United Nations Security Council seems intent on dismantling it?

Answer from The Minister for Development (Anneliese Dodds)

I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for his words, and for making it clear that the UK Government do indeed support a rules-based international order. That is critical to international law, including international humanitarian law, as we have been discussing. We will continue to hold to this position, including within the UN and with all of our partners.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q25 Rachael Maskell Labour (Co-op) York Central
Foreign Affairs
Context

MP raised concerns about the fragility of the ceasefire, breaches with impunity, lack of recognition of Palestine denying people protection.

Question

We know that the ceasefire is incredibly fragile, and that there have been breaches with impunity—in particular, we think about the people of Jenin at this time. Does the Minister recognise that the lack of recognition of Palestine now is denying people across Palestine the protection that they need?

Answer from The Minister for Development (Anneliese Dodds)

That protection is critical at every stage. The UK Government have been absolutely clear that we have seen far too much death and destruction in Gaza—we are now seeing truly heart-rending scenes of people trying to return to communities that have been destroyed, and we have seen over 46,000 people being killed. That population requires our support, and I do not believe that is contingent on political circumstances.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q26 Shockat Adam Ind Leicester South
Asylum & Refugees Foreign Affairs
Context

MP expressed concern over the new world order, displacement threats by powerful figures, and called for recognition of a Palestinian state to counter ethnic cleansing.

Question

I would like to thank the Minister for her update yesterday, which was greatly appreciated. Does she agree with me that we are standing on the precipice of a new and dangerous world order, leaving behind one that based global peace on global justices that we have recognised? Close to 48,000 Palestinian men, women and children have been killed, while hundreds of thousands are returning to the rubble that was once their homes and, as we speak, mothers are looking for their children in the rubble. Is this not the time to categorically use the same words we use for other conflicts, and call this out for what it is: the ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people? We must immediately recognise a Palestinian state, and can we stand up to President Trump and tell him that Gaza is not for sale?

Answer from The Minister for Development (Anneliese Dodds)

As I stated in response to the question from the hon. Member for Ceredigion Preseli, the UK has been and will continue to be an advocate for the international rules-based order, which is incredibly important. We need to see those rules upheld by all, and of course we will continue to advocate for that at the UN in relation to all countries. I agree with the hon. Member about the horrendous situation so many Gazans are facing.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q27 Jacob Collier Lab Burton and Uttoxeter
Foreign Affairs
Context

The President of the United States has made comments that undermine progress towards a two-state solution in the Middle East. The Minister for Development, Anneliese Dodds, was asked to confirm the stance regarding Palestinian self-determination.

Question

I am concerned about the comments made by the President of the United States about a 'riviera of the middle east' which undermines the hard work towards a two-state solution that is the only way to have lasting peace in the region. Can she confirm that it will be for the Palestinian people to determine the destiny of their country?

Answer from The Minister for Development (Anneliese Dodds)

I am grateful to my hon. Friend for asking me to confirm that it will be for the Palestinian people to determine the future of Gaza, and absolutely, we have been a crystal clear on that. Indeed, as I stated previously, we have been working with the Palestinian Authority on this.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q28 Jim Shannon DUP Strangford
Foreign Affairs
Context

The Minister was asked about the need for a secure border in Israel, economic empowerment in Gaza, and whether the Government will consider a fresh approach to resolving conflicts in the region.

Question

I thank the Minister for her answers during this urgent question. I believe we should look at Trump’s plans for Gaza more closely. However, I want a future for Gaza that sees it become economically viable with jobs, an economy and safety for Israelis too. Will the Minister consent to keeping an open mind on dialogue with a fresh approach?

Answer from The Minister for Development (Anneliese Dodds)

I am sure that Members across the House want to ensure that there is an economically viable situation in Gaza in the future. That is one of the many reasons why commercial operations have to be allowed to resume, and it is really important that the Government of Israel enable that. We need a situation of security and sovereignty for Gazans and all Palestinians as well as Israelis.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not commit to keeping an open mind on dialogue with new approach

How: Looking At This

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q29 Patricia Ferguson Lab Glasgow West
Asylum & Refugees
Context

The Minister was asked about the need for international protection and support for Palestinians facing displacement. The questioner also asked if it is time for the UK Government to recognize Palestine as an independent state.

Question

I thank my hon. Friend for securing this important urgent question. Over the last 16 months, we have seen Palestinian people displaced from their homes up to nine times. In diplomacy, timing is everything. Is it now time for our Government and the international community to recognize Palestine as a state?

Answer from The Minister for Development (Anneliese Dodds)

My hon. Friend is right to refer to the levels of displacement. As I said previously, 90% of the population of Gaza has been displaced, some two or three times, and some up to nine times. When we consider the impact on whole families of having to move so many times, I am sure we are all disturbed by that. She is right to say that timing is important—which is why the UK Government are considering this so carefully.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not commit to recognizing Palestine as an independent state

How: Considering

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q30 Joe Powell Lab Kensington and Bayswater
Foreign Affairs
Context

The Minister was asked about actions taken to prevent the collapse of humanitarian aid operations in Gaza, particularly concerning UNRWA's operations under Israeli occupation.

Question

Gaza’s devastation needs a strong international coalition for reconstruction and humanitarian aid. Two pieces of legislation have come into effect that will ban UNRWA operations in areas under Israeli occupation. What actions are the Government taking to prevent these humanitarian aid operations from collapsing?

Answer from The Minister for Development (Anneliese Dodds)

My hon. Friend is right; Gaza’s recovery needs will be vast, and they are extremely serious. The UK is engaged with partners on assessing those needs, and working together so that we can ensure that the unprecedented scale of destruction in Gaza is remediated. We continue to work with partners on this, and the UK Government’s position on UNWRA has been articulated a number of times from this Dispatch Box: we believe that it must be able to continue to operate.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not provide concrete actions taken by the UK Government

How: Working With Partners

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Q31 Chris Murray Lab Edinburgh East and Musselburgh
Asylum & Refugees
Context

The Minister was asked to condemn illegal settlement building in the West Bank, which has led to routine displacement of Palestinians.

Question

Palestinian land belongs to the Palestinians. Will the Minister join me in unequivocally condemning illegal settlement building in the West Bank?

Answer from The Minister for Development (Anneliese Dodds)

Yes, and having seen that activity for myself, with the impact it has had on Palestinians and their families, the violence that has often accompanied it, and the economic damage it has done, I am well convinced of that, as indeed the UK Government have been—they have stated that many times.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)