Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, what representations he has made to his Israeli counterpart on the protection of healthcare (a) personnel and (b) infrastructure in Gaza since 7 October 2023.

The UK is aware of the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting which has documented a number of attacks against health care facilities since 7 October. The UK is clear that healthcare and other emergency services personnel, and civilian infrastructure including hospitals and medical facilities, shelters and water and sanitation systems must be protected in conflict. We have consistently urged Israel to ensure it adheres to International Humanitarian Law and takes all possible precautions to protect civilians, recognising that Hamas is embedded in parts of the civilian population. All states, including Israel, must exercise their legitimate right to self-defence in accordance with International Humanitarian Law. The President of Israel, Isaac Herzog, has stated that Israel will operate in accordance with international law. The Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary will continue to engage regularly and closely with their Israeli counterparts on this issue.