Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories Debate

Full Debate: Read Full Debate
Department: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories

Kim Johnson Excerpts
Thursday 23rd March 2023

(1 year, 1 month ago)

Commons Chamber
Read Full debate Read Hansard Text Watch Debate Read Debate Ministerial Extracts

Urgent Questions are proposed each morning by backbench MPs, and up to two may be selected each day by the Speaker. Chosen Urgent Questions are announced 30 minutes before Parliament sits each day.

Each Urgent Question requires a Government Minister to give a response on the debate topic.

This information is provided by Parallel Parliament and does not comprise part of the offical record

Anne-Marie Trevelyan Portrait Anne-Marie Trevelyan
- View Speech - Hansard - - - Excerpts

As I say, we are appalled by the continuing and increasing terror attacks, which are injuring both Israelis and Palestinians. We continue to share our concerns and support those who are working towards a peaceful resolution.

Kim Johnson Portrait Kim Johnson (Liverpool, Riverside) (Lab)
- View Speech - Hansard - -

The Minister has mentioned repeatedly the need for a de-escalation of violence. However, since the election of the most right-wing Government in Israel’s history, human rights violations have increased significantly, including the deaths of innocent children. Settlements in the occupied west bank are illegal, and the eviction of Palestinians from their homes causes unnecessary suffering and calls into question the Israeli Government’s commitment to a viable two-state solution. Will the Minister outline how she intends to ensure the Israeli Government abide by their obligations under international law? No warm words—actions speak louder than words.

Anne-Marie Trevelyan Portrait Anne-Marie Trevelyan
- View Speech - Hansard - - - Excerpts

As I say, the UK Government continue to ask all parties to take urgent measures to reduce tensions and de-escalate. Since the beginning of the year, both the Foreign Secretary and Lord Ahmad have spoken to many influential international partners working alongside us who have a stake in calming this very difficult situation.