Israel and the Palestinians Supporting Peace 2021-04-20
2021-04-20
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The question arises from ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve conflicts in the Middle East involving Israel and Palestinian territories.
What diplomatic steps is he taking to support peace between Israel and the Palestinians?
The UK is actively encouraging both parties back to dialogue and supports their decision to resume co-operation. We are pushing for deeper collaboration on health and economic issues through initiatives like the international fund for Israeli-Palestinian peace, alongside engaging with regional partners and President Biden's Administration.
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Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The issue pertains to the rule of international law in Palestine and Israel, with a focus on democratic processes such as elections.
Does he agree that peace must be built on the rule of law with severe consequences for breaches, and all Palestinians should have the right to vote?
We regularly call on Israel to abide by its obligations under international law and encourage Palestinian leadership towards democratic institutions. We welcome President Abbas's announcement of election dates and will work closely with the Palestinian Authority to support these elections, including those in East Jerusalem.
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Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
There are concerns about UK aid being used to prolong the conflict due to delays in reviewing materials that may incite violence against Israel.
Despite assurances of a March publication, there is still no EU review of Palestinian textbooks. What will be done to ensure UK aid does not support materials harmful to peace?
The EU review is in its final stages, we do not fund Palestinian school textbooks directly. We engage regularly with the EU at senior levels for timely publication of the report and liaise closely with the Palestinian Authority to address highlighted issues.
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Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
A $250 million Act has been passed by US Congress to create a fund for peace-building, and the UK is assessing its feasibility.
The US Congress has passed an Act creating an international fund for Israeli-Palestinian peace. Will the Minister confirm if the UK will use the G7 summit to join this project?
We engage positively with peace-building initiatives and continue assessing our overseas development aid. We will work closely with the US Administration, Israeli Government, and Palestinian Authority towards a two-state solution.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific plans or results of assessment are not provided
Engaging Positively
Current Programme Of Work
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
With the G7 summit approaching, there is an opportunity to demonstrate commitment through multilateral cooperation and peace-building initiatives.
Does he agree that with the upcoming G7 summit in Cornwall, it is time for the UK to take a board seat on the international fund for Israeli-Palestinian peace?
We have no current plans, but we remain interested in initiatives that encourage peace and co-operation between Israel and Palestine. We will continue working alongside regional governments and the US Administration towards this goal.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific plans or timelines are not provided
No Current Plans
Keen Interest
Response accuracy
Q6
Direct Answer
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Context
There is an ICC investigation into alleged war crimes by Palestinian and Israeli forces, creating a tension between the court's independence and government statements.
The Prime Minister said that an ICC investigation is a 'prejudicial attack'. Does he believe that the court is independent or not?
We absolutely respect the ICC's independence. We expect it to comply with its mandate and will remain a strong supporter of the court.
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Assessment & feedback
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