Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has made an assessment of the potential impact of the internet blackout in Gaza on (a) the delivery of humanitarian aid and (b) civilian protection.

The UK Government has not conducted or published a formal assessment of the impact of internet blackouts in Gaza. However, we are closely monitoring the situation and are aware of the significant challenges these blackouts pose, including their hindrance to aid coordination. They also limit civilians' access to emergency services and vital information, increasing their vulnerability. These impacts are considered as part of our ongoing engagement with humanitarian partners and in our broader analysis of the situation in Gaza. The UK continues to advocate for the protection of civilians and the restoration of essential services, including communications infrastructure.