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Israel and Palestine
16 December 2024
Lead MP
Roz Savage
South Cotswolds
Lib Dem
Responding Minister
Hamish Falconer
Tags
Ukraine
Word Count: 20688
Other Contributors: 46
At a Glance
Roz Savage raised concerns about israel and palestine in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The MP called for the immediate recognition of Palestine as a state by the UK government and urged an end to arms export licences to Israel. She also asked for the Government to do all they can to secure an immediate bilateral ceasefire in Gaza and bring hostages home, including British national Emily Damari. I ask for support in recognising Israel's right to self-defence and peace with justice, while also acknowledging the need for a two-state solution based on dismantling terrorist organisations that perpetuate hatred and violence. We must not abandon Israel in its hour of need as this would be a betrayal of an ally and principles of freedom and democracy. The MP asks the Government to explain their rationale for not completely restricting arms sales to Israel, despite international law concerns, and to outline steps being taken towards recognising a Palestinian state as part of the peace process. I urge the Government to cease all arms licences that contribute to these conflicts and engage directly with Israel to ensure international oversight of its defense mechanisms. I urge the UK to stop selling arms to Israel. The government should demonstrate leadership by halting arms sales where there is evidence of human rights abuses; imposing sanctions on individuals pushing a conflict; and leading an international effort to stop the violence and rebuild Gaza. The UK must end its complicity in Israeli war crimes by stopping the supply of spare parts for weapons, including F-35 fighter jets, and formally recognising a Palestinian state to pave the way for peace. I call for more humanitarian aid to be allowed into Gaza through various routes and urge Israel to implement commitments made regarding aid delivery. Additionally, I advocate for the release of hostages and the need for a credible path towards a Palestinian state as part of ensuring long-term peace and stability in the region.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The MP expressed profound grief and horror over the tragic events in Gaza and Israel, particularly highlighting the killing of innocent people. She mentioned specific figures such as more than 1,200 Israelis killed since October 2023, and estimates of up to 186,000 Palestinians possibly being killed. She also noted that approximately 90% of the population in Gaza has been displaced at least once, illustrating a dire humanitarian crisis. Roz Savage emphasised the historical context, referring to the Balfour declaration's impact on Palestinian rights and the Nakba of 1948 when 750,000 Palestinians were driven out. I am deeply concerned about the existential threats faced by Israel. On 7 October, Hamas killed over 1200 people, including children and elderly civilians, which is described as unthinkable barbarism with graphic evidence of violence against women and children. The suffering of innocent Palestinian civilians must be acknowledged alongside the atrocities committed by Hamas, who use human shields and embed their terror infrastructure in civilian areas. The MP is concerned about the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the impact of UK arms sales to Israel, highlighting that constituents are alarmed by the destruction and death witnessed. More than 1,300 signatures were collected on petitions related to this issue, reflecting the widespread concern among her constituents. Every week in the past year, debates have been held but little progress has been made. The UK continues to supply essential parts for weapons used in conflicts that result in deaths of civilians, including children. There is a deep frustration among people who feel their elected representatives are not doing enough. Peaceful demonstrations and petitions express this anger, but some individuals have resorted to direct action, leading to arrests under counter-terrorism powers. I am concerned about the failure of the British Government to demonstrate transparency regarding arms exports to Israel. Tens of thousands of people in Palestine and Israel have lost their lives, with data from the United Nations indicating that Israeli Government attacks have damaged or destroyed more than half of Gaza's homes, 80% of its commercial facilities, and 87% of its school buildings, leaving healthcare systems barely functioning. The UK's record in supporting peace in the Middle East has been abysmal, particularly regarding Israel's actions in Gaza. The government continues to supply spare parts for F-35 fighter jets used in Israeli military offensives and refuses to introduce meaningful action despite condemnations of war crimes and genocide. Amnesty International reports have stated that Israeli actions against Gaza's 2.3 million population are acts of genocide. I am concerned about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel. I highlighted that Hamas continues to use civilians as human shields, leading to significant suffering among innocent people. The current hostages in captivity pose a serious challenge for both human dignity and rights, while the lack of progress on aid delivery remains critical.
Afzal Khan
Lab
Manchester Rusholme
Calls for the UK to join the 146 UN member states that recognise Palestine as a matter of urgency, stating Netanyahu's refusal to listen to calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
Alistair Carmichael
Lib Dem
Orkney and Shetland
Supports Pippa Heylings' point and calls for clarification from the Minister regarding the current government's position on the 2030 road map for UK-Israel bilateral relations.
Andrew Slaughter
Lab
Hammersmith and Chiswick
He criticised the UK Government's lack of action in response to war crimes committed in Gaza, highlighting a need for substantive steps such as examining trade with Israel, arms sales, sanctions against settlers and members of Netanyahu's government, and recognising Palestine. He questioned why these actions had not been taken. Questioned why the current government does not recognise Palestine, despite previous statements and a Commons vote 10 years ago.
Andy McDonald
Lab
Middlesbrough and Thornaby East
In an intervention, Andy McDonald expressed concern about the 15% of F-35 construction parts coming from the UK and warned that continued involvement in such programmes could leave Britain at risk of prosecution for complicity in war crimes. The intervention questioned the logic behind continuing arms exports to Israel, particularly concerning F-35 aircraft that are reportedly used to deliver large bombs in Gaza. The argument was made for a block on end-user sales rather than an outright withdrawal from the programme. Pressed the Minister to explain why more action is not taken against all illegal outposts in the West Bank and occupied territories.
Apsana Begum
Lab
Poplar and Limehouse
A surgeon broke down in front of the Select Committee on International Development describing drones targeting children and doctors, raising fears over autonomous weapons. The MP questioned whether UK-made drones or F-35 fighter jets are being used to kill civilians in Gaza. She also asked for a clear statement from the Minister regarding UK products sent to Israel through indirect routes and their use against Palestinians. A recent Amnesty International report concluded that 'Israel has committed and is continuing to commit genocide against Palestinians.' The MP highlighted the importance of accountability for the role of the UK as an ally of Israel and emphasised the need for a clear condemnation of Israeli actions, not just theoretical adherence to international law.
Ayoub Khan
Ind
Birmingham Perry Barr
Mr Khan denounced the ongoing violence as genocide and criticised Israel's actions, highlighting extensive civilian casualties and human rights abuses such as killing paramedics and aid workers. He called for immediate recognition of Palestinian statehood to address these issues.
Ben Lake
PC
Ceredigion Preseli
Inquired about UK's stance on illegal occupation of West Bank and occupied territories.
Brendan O'Hara
SNP
Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber
Mr. O'Hara demanded an immediate ceasefire, release of hostages, end to UK arms sales to Israel, and official recognition of Palestine since the atrocities in October 2023. He highlighted that four fifths of those killed were inside residential buildings, which is not legitimate under international law. He criticised the Government's complicity in supplying weapons to Netanyahu despite violations of international law.
Carla Denyer
Green
Bristol Central
The MP was shocked to learn that UK's trade in F-35 parts is traceable and that the US Government are tracking it, questioning why this information has not been sought.
Chris Hinchliff
Lab
North East Hertfordshire
Asked if the Minister would give way.
Dave Doogan
SNP
Angus and Perthshire Glens
He agreed that Israel's punitive measures against Palestinians are counterproductive and urged the UK to urge Israel to stop its destructive actions in Gaza, emphasizing the need for an immediate ceasefire.
Diane Abbott
Ind
Hackney North and Stoke Newington
The MP sought the opportunity to speak after Liam Byrne's address but did not provide a detailed contribution in this batch. The MP highlighted that people in Hackney feel strongly about the issue. She agreed with her right hon. Friend that Israel is deliberately trying to disrupt a two-state solution through settlements on the West Bank and annexation of the Golan Heights.
Helen Hayes
Lab
Dulwich and West Norwood
I agree with the need for action on UK arms components being used by Israeli armed forces in ways that breach international law. I also stress the importance of recognising Palestine as an essential step towards a successful peace process, accompanied by stronger positions against illegal settlements.
Helen Maguire
Lib Dem
Epsom and Ewell
She asked Andrew Slaughter if he agreed that the UK must uphold its obligations to the International Criminal Court by supporting investigations into alleged war crimes in the region and enforcing any resulting rulings.
Ian Byrne
Lab
Liverpool West Derby
Mr Byrne highlighted the tragic case of Hind Rajab, a five-year-old Palestinian girl killed during an Israeli attack. He detailed how 17,000 children and over 45,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's assault on Gaza. He also cited reports by Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch that found evidence of genocide, ethnic cleansing, and apartheid, urging Britain to take urgent action against arms sales to Israel.
Jeremy Corbyn
Ind
Islington North
Jeremy Corbyn expressed concern over the significance of the debate being held in Westminster Hall rather than the main Chamber. He highlighted the impact of arms supplies to Israel, including F-35 jets, and criticised the government's argument that it is impossible to separate parts supplied to Israel from those destined for other users of F-35 jets.
Kim Johnson
Lab
Liverpool Riverside
On arms sales, the MP asked if the UK Government should reconsider selling F-35 parts to Israel and suggested an immediate ceasefire and sanctions to bring about peace.
Kirsteen Sullivan
Lab Co-op
Bathgate and Linlithgow
I support my hon. Friend's call for prioritising safe routes to allow medical aid into Gaza without delay.
Layla Moran
Lib Dem
Oxford West and Abingdon
Ms. Moran intervened to discuss the International Court of Justice's advisory opinion on occupation, urging the Government to clarify their stance more swiftly regarding illegal settlement goods. Ms Moran noted the importance of her Bill advocating for recognition of Palestine, criticising speeches that appear to erase Palestinian voices. She emphasised a cross-party commitment to addressing the issue over decades. Recognises that within Palestine, recognition of a state is seen as a prerequisite but not a replacement for peace. Emphasises the need for viable democratic elections in Palestine where everyone should be allowed to vote. The intervention suggested expanding the scope of the review to include the west bank, where issues are worsening. It was implied that a broader review might lead to suspending more than 30 export licences.
Liam Byrne
Lab
Birmingham Hodge Hill and Solihull North
The MP condemned attacks on 7 October, the hostage situation, and the destruction of Palestine. He criticised the Government's decision not to cancel all arms export licences for Israel, especially those for F-35 parts, despite clear risks of violating international humanitarian law. The intervention pointed out technical limitations under current contracts that prevent tracking of F-35 parts once they leave UK borders. It was argued that under the arms trade treaty, there should be no exports if there is an overriding risk of international humanitarian law breaches.
Luke Taylor
Lib Dem
Sutton and Cheam
He expressed deep sadness over the events of October 2023, noting that more than 1,000 civilians were murdered or abducted by Hamas terrorists, with 101 still being held hostage. He also highlighted Israel's destructive response, leading to a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza with 90% of the population displaced and critical infrastructure damaged.
Member
unnamed
Asked when Roz Savage would come to certain points, expressing concern over time constraints and emphasizing the importance of discussing Palestinian statehood.
Mike Tapp
Lab
Dover and Deal
Mr. Tapp addressed the issue of recognising Palestine, arguing that unilateral recognition complicates peace efforts rather than advancing them. He highlighted that revoking arms exports would have little practical impact on the situation in Gaza but could undermine national security interests in the Middle East.
Mohammad Yasin
Lab
Bedford
The constituent signatures in Bedford and Kempston support recognising the state of Palestine now, given Israel's year-long bombardment leading to massive human suffering and evidence of war crimes.
Monica Harding
Lib Dem
Esher and Walton
Called for an immediate bilateral ceasefire since November 2023, supporting the recognition of Palestine on 1967 lines. Urged the Minister to respond clearly to calls for halting all arms exports to Israel. Raised concerns over laws passed in Israel's Knesset banning UNRWA and the risk of catastrophic consequences for Palestinian civilians.
Munira Wilson
Lib Dem
Twickenham
Ms. Wilson agreed with the hon. Gentleman that now is the time to provide hope to Palestinians by recognising their state, especially in light of extremists like Smotrich in the Israeli Government looking to annex the West Bank.
Glasgow West
Asked if she could be given way to speak. Asked for an intervention but no text provided beyond the request, hence no additional content to summarise. She expressed concern that Israeli officials intend to maintain a long-term presence in Gaza and condemned the de facto annexation of parts of it.
Paul Kohler
Lib Dem
Wimbledon
Mr Kohler expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence in Gaza, condemning Hamas's attacks while also criticising Israel for failing to act within international law. He highlighted the urgent need for a bilateral ceasefire and long-term peace based on a two-state solution recognising Palestinian statehood.
Paula Barker
Lab
Liverpool Wavertree
Agrees that recognising Palestine is crucial for peace and criticises Israel's reaction to European counterparts who recognise Palestine.
Pippa Heylings
Lib Dem
South Cambridgeshire
Questions the justification of continuing arms sales to Israel, citing concerns about its compliance with international humanitarian standards and its impact on aid delivery in Gaza.
Richard Burgon
Lab
Leeds East
Richard Burgon called on the Government to introduce sanctions against Israel and pointed out that despite acknowledging risks, they continue to export F-35 fighter jet parts. He questioned why UK does not have access to US tracking information of these exports and asked for assurance on legal protections for workers involved. Asked if the UK Government has access to information on F-35 parts in the global spares pool and their usage by Israel.
Richard Foord
Lib Dem
Honiton and Sidmouth
Mr Foord criticised the lack of compliance with international law by British arms exports to Israel, particularly regarding the F-35 fighter jets. He pointed out that 90 Palestinians were killed in an attack using a 2,000 lb bomb delivered by F-35s and called for stricter adherence to the principle of distinction in international humanitarian law.
Rupa Huq
Lab
Ealing Central and Acton
Points out the inconsistency in UK policy, as more than half of EU nations recognise Palestine but the UK does not formally acknowledge it.
Ruth Cadbury
Lab
Brentford and Isleworth
She called for an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages, stressing that destruction on a scale seen recently goes beyond self-defence and disregards international law. She also highlighted the unlawful expansion of illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank, which hinders the possibility of a two-state solution.
Started e-petition 653509 calling for the recognition of Palestine as a state.
Sarah Smith
Lab
Hyndburn
Discussed a needs assessment showing 96% of children in Gaza feel death is imminent, with 79% suffering from nightmares and 49% wishing to die due to the war. Called for an immediate ceasefire, release of hostages, and recognition of Palestinian state as part of a two-state solution.
Seamus Logan
SNP
Aberdeenshire North and Moray East
The speaker asked for intervention time but no further content was provided. Asked if killing civilians through means other than direct bombing is equally reprehensible, advocating for a complete cessation of arms provision to Israel as the only way to stop them.
Shockat Adam
Ind
Leicester South
He thanked the hon. Member for securing the debate and highlighted the moral, political, and legal duty to uphold international law during conflicts. He raised concerns about British airspace being used by US forces in Cyprus potentially aiding war crimes or genocide.
Simon Opher
Lab
Stroud
Mr. Opher asked if the hon. Friend celebrated Standing Together, a group working for peace between Israelis and Palestinians, and supported their call for suspending arms transfers to Israel and recognising Palestine.
Stella Creasy
Lab Co-op
Walthamstow
She agreed with her hon. Friend and suggested taking the vote to recognise Palestine to the United Nations.
Tahir Ali
Lab
Birmingham Hall Green and Moseley
He expressed strong condemnation of Israel's actions in Gaza, urging immediate recognition of Palestinian statehood and cessation of all arms sales to Israel. He questioned why the Government have not recognised Palestine.
Tan Dhesi
Lab
Slough
Supports the Government's public call for an immediate ceasefire and advocates for a two-state solution as the route to lasting peace, urging recognition of Palestine.
Tessa Munt
Lib Dem
Wells and Mendip Hills
Noted that small actions, such as local councils relinquishing interests in buildings perceived to support arms trade, can contribute positively towards peace efforts.
Tom Morrison
Lib Dem
Cheadle
He called on the Government to show leadership by formally recognising Palestine, as promised during the last general election.
Warinder Juss
Lab
Wolverhampton West
Urges a mutual and permanent ceasefire to stop atrocities in Gaza, allow aid into the region, and ensure the return of hostages while advocating for the sovereign state of Palestine alongside a secure Israel.
Wera Hobhouse
Lib Dem
Bath
Expresses concern over Mike Huckabee's nomination for US ambassador to Israel and urges the Government to reaffirm support for a two-state solution.
Government Response
Hamish Falconer
Government Response
It is an honour to serve under your chairmanship, Mr Pritchard. I am grateful to the Petitions Committee for securing this debate and to the hon. Member for South Cotswolds (Dr Savage) for leading it. The House is united in wanting to end the agonies in Gaza, return hostages, end violent settlement expansion, and secure a two-state solution. Since becoming the Government, we have called for an immediate ceasefire, restored funding to UNRWA (£41 million), taken action on international law issues, imposed sanctions against settlers and settlements (three illegal outposts and four organisations sanctioned since July), and committed to recognising Palestinian statehood at the most conducive time. We remain steadfast in supporting Israel's security but also call for adherence to international law, condemning extremist settlers and unacceptable rhetoric by some Israeli Ministers. The Government is driving efforts towards creating conditions necessary for a two-state solution, including supporting reforms to the Palestinian Authority. Regarding sanctions on arms exports, we have suspended licences for equipment that could be used in violation of IHL, excluding F-35 parts due to their critical role in international peace and security within NATO and support for Ukraine. The Government has announced £112 million for occupied Palestinian territories this year, including a £13 million commitment to UNRWA, and continues to press for the release of hostages through diplomatic efforts.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.