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Israel and Palestine
11 December 2023
Lead MP
Cat Smith
Lancaster and Wyre
Lab
Responding Minister
Leo Docherty
Tags
TaxationForeign AffairsBenefits & WelfareWomen & Equalities
Word Count: 24405
Other Contributors: 31
At a Glance
Cat Smith raised concerns about israel and palestine in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The speaker asks the Government to provide more details on the commitments they plan to make in order to work with the international community to bring about lasting peace, respecting the human rights of both Israelis and Palestinians and establishing statehood solutions that include ending intolerable settlements in the west bank. The hon. Member urges the Government and Labour Front Bench to support an immediate bilateral ceasefire and encourages bold diplomatic efforts akin to those seen in previous conflicts. She emphasizes the importance of dialogue with Hamas to secure the release of hostages and advocates for leveraging UK's regional influence, particularly its ties with Qatar and Egypt, to promote peace. The UK Government should urgently push for a permanent ceasefire and meaningful international action to ensure Israel acts within international humanitarian law. The ICC must investigate potential war crimes by all parties involved. The MP calls for an immediate permanent ceasefire on all sides, a significant increase in humanitarian and medical aid, hostage release, and renewed political efforts towards peace. She urges protection of civilians from displacement, allowing humanitarian aid and medical supplies into Gaza, and emphasizes the UK's duty to ensure international law and human rights are upheld. I ask the Government to grant a full day's debate on the Israel-Gaza war early in the new year. I urge the UK to call for a ceasefire when breaches of international law are occurring, considering the urgent need to stop the ongoing atrocities and protect civilians. Ms Hayes asks what action the UK Government will take when Israel is clearly not acting within international law. She also questions why the UK Government has not contradicted inflammatory statements made by Israeli Ministers or sanctioned those responsible, and inquires about actions taken to assess the legality of IDF actions in Gaza. I am asking the Government to advise what concrete steps they are taking to bring about an urgent end to hostilities. What do they know about Israel's ultimate goals in Gaza? In particular, what steps are they taking to pressure the Israeli Government to stop bombing civilians and destroying vital infrastructure?
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The speaker is concerned about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza following the Hamas terror attack, noting that over 17,700 people have lost their lives. She also highlights the importance of recognising the history of the conflict beyond the recent events and calls for a sustainable peace solution. The hon. Member is concerned about the ongoing violence in Gaza, including the mass killing and destruction witnessed since October 7th, which has led to a humanitarian crisis with half of Gaza's population facing starvation. She highlights the need for civilian protection and addresses issues such as hostage situations, sexual violence, and long-standing oppression and discrimination against Palestinians by Israeli authorities. The atrocities committed against Palestinian civilians in Gaza since October are a crime against humanity. Innocent Palestinians face massacres, bombardments, starvation, and communal punishment, with homes, schools, hospitals destroyed and basic supplies withheld under blockade. Save the Children has warned that children may die from hunger or disease due to lack of aid. At least 70 journalists have been killed, four times the general population's death rate, highlighting a media blackout. Palestinian men were stripped naked by Israeli forces. The MP is concerned about the ongoing destruction of Palestinian lives in Gaza and the West Bank since October. She highlights that over 17,000 Palestinians have been killed, with 40% reported to be children. Constituents have noted that more than half of all homes are destroyed, only 14 out of 36 hospitals partially functional, and now 80% of the population, or 1.8 million people, are displaced. I am concerned about breaches of international law in the Israel-Gaza dispute, including the displacement of Palestinians during Nakba and ongoing settlement building. Gaza has been blockaded for 16 years, leading to collective punishment and indiscriminate bombing that has resulted in over 20,000 civilian deaths and destroyed half of the housing infrastructure. Ms Helen Hayes is concerned about the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza due to the destruction of critical infrastructure, resulting in a lack of access to medicine, food, and water. She highlights that more Palestinians have been killed in the conflict since October than in previous years, and civilians are dying because of this situation. Additionally, she mentions the Israeli Government's failure to act within international law, which has not yielded results despite private pressure from the UK Government. I am concerned about the destruction of 60% to 70% of buildings and homes in northern Gaza, with at least 10,000 children killed and many more injured or forced to undergo operations without anaesthetic. The UN has pointed out that aid is being held up by Israeli checks and only a fifth per day of what Gaza needs is allowed in, intensifying the suffering and starvation.
Afzal Khan
Lab
Manchester Rusholme
He added his congratulations to the petitioners and expressed that it is unthinkable to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the universal declaration of human rights while denying Palestinian human rights, highlighting the violence against civilians. He pointed out that half of Gaza is starving, with 90% lacking daily food access. He agreed with MacAskill's view and emphasised the need to call out the Israeli army's barbarism on Human Rights Day. Mr Khan briefly intervened to ask Mr Nicolson a question.
Represented constituents who have written over 2,600 letters expressing concerns about the conflict in Gaza. Highlighted ActionAid's statement on disproportionate impacts on women and medical professionals' struggles under bombardment. Called attention to the traumatic circumstances pregnant women face giving birth without proper care or facilities. Responded to another MP's point, stating 'They are not even Tories.'
Called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, citing 350,000 people suffering from infections in Gaza and 46,000 injured without treatment. Emphasised the severe shortage of medical supplies and the impact on civilians.
Andrew Percy
Con
Brigg and Goole
Mr. Andrew Percy expressed deep concern over antisemitic protests in London, noting that Jewish communities feel unsafe due to such incidents. He shared his experience visiting sites of recent attacks in Israel, describing the horrific violence committed by Hamas terrorists against civilians, including brutal gender-based violence and sexual assaults. Mr. Percy emphasized the need for Hamas's degradation and its removal from governance in Gaza. Asked the hon. Gentleman about his policy for ridding Hamas from governance in Gaza, questioning the effectiveness of previous ceasefires. As the sole Conservative Member present, he sought to draw attention to the distinction between democratically elected politicians in Israel and those seeking political change through Hamas. He shared poll data from Palestinian pollsters showing that 83% of Palestinians reject co-existence with Israel and 75% support recent attacks, expressing concern about how to achieve political progress given these views.
Andrew Slaughter
Lab
Hammersmith and Chiswick
Andrew Slaughter inquires if the Minister's Department will sponsor a full-day debate in the main Chamber to discuss various issues related to Israel-Gaza war, including settler violence, IDF actions, settlement expansion, and UK arms supplies.
Andrew Western
Lab
Stretford and Urmston
He noted there is no clear strategy from the Government to help prevent suffering in Gaza and asked that when the Minister responds, he sets out what steps are being taken now with international partners.
Anum Qaisar
Lab
Birkenhead
Described the horrific situations faced by Palestinians in Gaza, highlighting the risks journalists take to document atrocities and calling for an ICC investigation into war crimes. Emphasised the need for a permanent ceasefire.
Apsana Begum
Lab
Poplar and Limehouse
Expressed horror at the disregard for Palestinian life, noting a 40% increase in Gaza death toll since before the temporary humanitarian truce. Asked why there is so little outrage over civilian deaths and Islamophobic attacks on mosques and individuals.
Bury South
The MP thanked the lead speaker for their remarks, correcting a previous statement about his visit to Kfar Aza and expressing plans to return next month. He spoke against a ceasefire with Hamas, citing their charter stating the desire to wipe Jewish people off the face of the earth and recent attacks. He highlighted the brutality of the 7 October pogrom where his constituents lost family members and friends. He emphasised Israel's right to defend itself by targeting Hamas infrastructure and called for Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to be proscribed in its entirety.
Claudia Webbe questions whether the Government will provide evidence to the International Criminal Court regarding calls for prosecution of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Debbie Abrahams
Lab
Oldham East and Saddleworth
She congratulated the hon. Friend on their speech and asked if they were as disappointed as she was about the UK's abstention at the UN Security Council, which prevented support for a ceasefire resolution. Requested to give way but no further details provided.
Helen Hayes
Lab
Dulwich and West Norwood
The UK Government urges the Israeli Government to undertake targeted strikes and protect civilians, but Helen Hayes questions what further actions the UK Government will take when it is clear that these conditions are not being met.
Imran Hussain
Lab
Bradford East
Representing constituents who have written to him and signed petitions, Imran Hussain highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, describing it as a 'graveyard' for thousands of innocent men, women and children. He cited recent statements from the EU's foreign policy chief and the UN's humanitarian affairs chief regarding the intensity of war crimes committed against Palestinians. Hussain also criticised the UK Government's abstention on a UN Security Council vote that would have led to a ceasefire resolution, arguing that this decision reflects a lack of independent foreign policy and undermines international law.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Mr. Shannon expressed his support for Israel and highlighted the ongoing attacks by Hamas, noting that rockets continue to be fired at Israeli civilian areas. He cited the effectiveness of the Iron Dome system, which intercepts nine out of ten munitions fired into Israel, and called for a bilateral ceasefire once Hamas is dismantled.
Joanna Cherry
SNP
Edinburgh South West
Condemned Hamas's crimes and supported the legal stance that Israel's response must adhere to international law. Called for a humanitarian approach, including ending collective punishment and ensuring basic needs are met in Gaza. Emphasised the need for a permanent ceasefire and lifting of the total closure on Gaza.
John Nicolson
SNP
Nigg and Strathokan
Asked the hon. Gentleman to explain his long-term objective regarding Gaza, questioning if citizens of Gaza will be bombed indefinitely until Hamas surrenders. Mr Nicolson expressed horror at the inhumane bombardment of Gaza, highlighting that around 7,000 children are among the estimated 17,000 dead. He criticised Israel's bombing of schools, hospitals, and homes as war crimes and called for UK neutrality, humanitarian aid, and an immediate ceasefire.
Kate Hollern
Lab
Blackburn
Concerned about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Kate Hollern highlighted that Blackburn is among the top constituencies for signatures on petitions related to the conflict. She condemned the October terror attack but criticized the collective punishment of Palestinians and called for an immediate binding ceasefire.
Kenny MacAskill
SNP
East Lothian
He condemned the events of October 7 and argued that Israel's response has been disproportionate, constituting a war crime. He called for an immediate ceasefire rather than just a humanitarian pause. He criticised the UK Government's failure to support a UN Security Council resolution for a ceasefire and highlighted the hypocrisy in addressing conflicts like Ukraine while remaining silent on Gaza.
Kim Leadbeater
Lab
Spen Valley
She supported MacAskill's argument, stressing that while ending violence is crucial, a political strategy involving international allies is necessary for resolving the conflict. She questioned why the Government had not pursued such a strategy over the past decade.
Layla Moran
Lib Dem
Oxford West and Abingdon
Asked if a pause in hostilities would be acceptable, given the current situation where hospitals are not functioning and aid is unable to reach those in need, Layla Moran expressed concern that without addressing the ongoing humanitarian crisis, more insurgency may fuel rather than prevent conflict.
Liam Byrne
Lab
Birmingham Hodge Hill and Solihull North
Congratulates the Member for Lancaster and Fleetwood on introducing the debate, acknowledges widespread support for the petition across his constituency. Expresses concern about the violence in Gaza that has led to 18,000 deaths, 50,000 injuries, and rendered 2.2 million people desperate for food assistance. Criticizes the World Food Programme's inability to operate effectively due to lack of resources and security. Urges the UK Government to support a binding-on-all-sides ceasefire.
My hon. Friend calls for an immediate ceasefire and agrees with Amnesty International urging the UK Government to end Israel's blockade of Gaza by suspending recent restrictions on essential supplies.
Matt Western
Lab
Warwick and Leamington
I abhor the violence of 1,200 people killed on 7 October and believe Israel's response has been disproportionate. The scenes are horrifying with indiscriminate loss of civilian lives. I hope for peace through political negotiation and targeted military action, but the increasing illegal settlements in the West Bank must concern us all. My hon. Friend is making a powerful speech. He expressed concern that the current conflict might be exploited by certain factions within the Israeli coalition government to pursue an ideological agenda, potentially accelerating illegal settlements with the aim of eradicating Palestine as imagined.
Mick Whitley
Lab
Bridgend
He emphasised the right to self-defence under international law and highlighted that Palestinian civilians, especially children, are suffering due to bombardment and siege. He cited UN figures indicating over 17,000 deaths and nearly 2 million displaced people since October 7th. Whitley warned of a worsening humanitarian crisis as winter progresses and called for an immediate ceasefire and political process to ensure peace. Mick Whitley asks about any discussions held by the Government over the past 13 years concerning a two-state solution and inquires when such discussions last took place.
He recognised that a temporary truce in Gaza had led to the release of hostages and reduced violence, asking if the hon. Friend agreed that pushing for a permanent ceasefire was crucial for securing peace and ending innocent lives being lost.
Paula Barker
Lab
Liverpool Wavertree
Asked if the UK Government should consider a process similar to the Ukraine scheme for Palestinians to come to the UK and return home when it is safe.
Richard Burgon
Lab
Leeds East
The MP notes that 1,400 Leeds East constituents have signed petitions on Israel-Palestine. He questions the UK Government's abstention at the UN Security Council vote for a ceasefire and calls for backing from the international community to end suffering, release hostages, and secure a better future.
Richard Foord
Lib Dem
Honiton and Sidmouth
I echo the hon. Member's calls for a two-state solution and question the senior Israeli official's claim that one third of those killed were combatants, highlighting the devastating impact on civilians.
Tan Dhesi
Lab
Slough
The hon. Member inquired about the issue of arms sales to Israel, questioning whether existing export control joint unit guidelines adequately prevent the facilitation of violations of international and humanitarian law.
He questioned whether the UK can still take a neutral stance given its position as an outlier after last Friday's UN vote, suggesting the need for the petition to be recognised and for the UK to return to neutrality rather than supporting the war.
Wayne David
Lab
Caerphilly
Expressed concern about the ongoing violence in Gaza and the need for a meaningful cessation of hostilities. Emphasised the importance of humanitarian relief, including food, water, medicines, and fuel. Called for the Kerem Shalom crossing to be opened by Israel. Highlighted settler violence in the West Bank and called for no increase in illegal settlements. Suggested that the UK should follow US actions on visa restrictions to pressure Israel towards a two-state solution.
Government Response
Leo Docherty
Government Response
I am grateful to the Petitions Committee for allowing this important debate and to the hon. Member for Lancaster and Fleetwood, who has led it. The Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is engaged elsewhere in his parliamentary duties, so I am delighted to be able to respond to the debate today. Of course we are all very clear that a profound tragedy is unfolding in the middle east with over 18,000 civilians dead in Gaza and fifteen British nationals losing their lives. Israel has suffered the worst terror attack in its history, and Hamas terrorists have brutally murdered, raped, kidnapped and maimed ordinary civilians in Israel, callously putting civilians at risk. The UK supports Israel's legitimate right to defend itself against terrorism but urges it to comply with international humanitarian law and minimise harm to civilians. We continue to urge the Israeli Government to allow immediate, unimpeded and safe access of lifesaving fuel, electricity and food into Gaza. Palestinian civilians should not suffer the consequences of Hamas's brutality. The UK has provided 74 tonnes of aid to Gaza and announced an additional £30 million of humanitarian assistance on 24 November. We remain committed to a two-state solution but do not believe that the long-term presence of Israeli security forces in Gaza would be beneficial for Israelis or Palestinians.
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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.