Conflict in Gaza

[Last updated 02/07/25]

I resolutely oppose Israeli plans and actions in Gaza. They are morally unjustifiable, wholly disproportionate and utterly counterproductive. They will not bring the hostages safely home. Nearly all hostages have been freed through negotiations, and I call on all parties to return to ceasefire negotiations. These must include the release of hostages and the rapid delivery of aid to Gaza.
 
I oppose the private delivery of aid. The UN has a humanitarian plan ready to deliver aid at the scale needed with mitigations against aid diversion.
 
The Israeli Government’s actions and rhetoric are egregious. The deterioration in the situation in Gaza is an affront to the values of British people and incompatible with principles that underpin the UK-Israeli relationship. I support the UK Government’s decision to suspend negotiations with this Israeli Government on a new free trade agreement and to review co-operation with it under existing bilateral roadmaps.
 
The suspension of relevant arms export licences to Israel is kept under review following the suspension of approximately 30 licences last September after thorough assessment, and any future changes to this position will need to be announced by the Foreign Secretary to Parliament.
 
I also support the International Court of Justice and its independence. Israel is obligated to implement the Court’s interim measures and I remain fully committed upholding our responsibilities under domestic and international law.
 
I oppose the spread of illegal Israeli settlements in the Occupied West Bank, which has led to soaring settler violence. I support the UK Government in imposing sanctions on a further three individuals and four entities involved in the settler movement, acting against those carrying out abuses of human rights. I also support the UK Government’s decision to sanction two Israeli Ministers, Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir, following their continued incitement to violence and extremist rhetoric against Palestinians. This violence has led to the death of Palestinians and the displacement of whole towns and villages. It is a cruel, degrading and completely unacceptable abuse of Palestinian human rights.
 
A two-state solution is the only framework for a just and lasting peace. Such a solution must result in Israelis living within secure borders, recognised and at peace with their neighbours and free from the threat of terrorism, and in Palestinians living in their own state, in dignity and security, free of occupation.