International Fund for Israeli-Palestinian Peace — [Clive Efford in the Chair]

Supports the international fund for Israeli-Palestinian peace, highlighting concerns about UK aid perpetuating conflict rather than resolving it. Criticizes UNRWA's criteria and Palestinian Authority curriculum promoting violence against Israelis. Urges the Minister to reconsider strategy due to lack of change from PA. Discusses peaceful coexistence projects and entrepreneurship in the region, emphasizing positive interactions like Save a Child's Heart charity. I am concerned that funding teachers and healthcare workers under the curriculum perpetuates existing problems. Can meaningful work be done to reform the curriculum to promote peace?

Mr Conor McGinn expressed optimism about the US election's impact on Middle East peace, emphasizing that friendship does not mean supporting every government. He discussed the importance of civil society projects in advancing Israeli-Palestinian relations despite political tensions, citing an example of a Palestinian peace activist arrested by Hamas for participating in a Zoom call with Israelis. He praised previous UK funding but lamented its cessation. It is good to hear about the UK Government's financial commitment, but there are concerns that speculation about cuts to the aid budget undermines the sustainability of this work.

Recalled personal experiences in Northern Ireland to highlight the importance of dialogue and understanding for peace. He emphasized the success of projects like Save a Child's Heart, which conducted 5,555 surgeries, and supported the Abraham accords. Critiqued criticism against normalizing relations with Israel, stressing its necessity for progress. Highlighted the UK's £3 million funding towards peaceful co-existence but sought additional funds to continue such initiatives. Mr Jim Shannon suggested that teachers and doctors funded by the £20 million set aside for salaries could be encouraged to perform cross-community work, as a small method of bringing people together.

Ms Richards highlighted the importance of supporting the International Fund for Israeli-Palestinian Peace, calling on the UK Government to reiterate its support. She praised the work of the Peres Centre for Peace and Innovation and mentioned a private donation from the Prince of Wales to this organisation. Ms Richards argued that such aid would align with the UK's commitment to use international development to advance foreign policy goals.

Welcomes efforts to establish a multilateral international fund for Israeli-Palestinian peace, but highlights the need for diplomatic support from the FCDO and buy-in from other nations. Cites £1 billion spent on similar efforts in Northern Ireland over two decades as comparison. Expresses concern about reckless Brexit actions undermining hard-won peace and calls for adherence to international law. Supports Israel's right to defend itself against aggressors but criticizes actions that undermine international laws and impose brutal living conditions on Palestinian civilians.

I am concerned about the lack of progress in peace talks between Israel and Palestine and urge the UK Government to play a more active role in facilitating negotiations. I call for increased support for civil society organizations working towards reconciliation.

Steve McCabe welcomed the concept of an international fund for Israeli-Palestinian peace, noting that it aims to promote co-operation and dialogue. He highlighted the success of the Alliance for Middle East Peace in building a coalition of support. McCabe criticised the UK Government's lack of funding prior to 2017 and called on them to seize the opportunity presented by the Biden Administration to play a crucial role in the initiative. He emphasised the importance of civil society dimensions in peacebuilding and highlighted the potential impact of an additional $200 million per year fund.

I support the creation of an international fund to foster peace between Israel and Palestine, emphasizing the importance of economic development and job creation for stability. I also stress the need for both sides to engage in meaningful dialogue.

Welcomed progress towards establishing a new international fund for projects promoting peace and reconciliation between Israel and the Palestinians, citing experiences from Northern Ireland's community projects. Emphasised the importance of grassroots efforts in creating conditions for political leaders to find common ground while encouraging cautious funding practices. Responds to Owen Thompson, agreeing with much of his speech but highlighting the issue of antisemitism within the Labour party.

Mr Wayne David emphasised the importance of mutual respect and understanding in discussions about Israel and Palestine. He advocated for a two-state solution, stressing the need for negotiation, give-and-take, and practical cooperation between Israelis and Palestinians. David highlighted lessons from the Northern Ireland peace process, particularly the role of an international fund that helped establish the Good Friday agreement. Will the Minister commit to exploring the possibility of the United Kingdom taking up one of the two seats on the governing body of the new fund?