Conflict in Gaza
[Last updated 28/04/25]
I deeply regret the breakdown of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and the return to hostilities and bloodshed in Gaza. The consequences of the ceasefire’s breakdown are catastrophic, for the hostages, their loved ones and the Palestinian civilians who have already endured so much. This ceasefire was the best chance we had seen to return the hostages to their families, bring fighting to an end, and to bring in humanitarian aid to Gaza.
I know the UK Government is working hard to encourage all parties to return to negotiations. Diplomacy is the only way to achieve security for both Israelis and Palestinians.
Aid should never be used as a political tool. I call on Israel to restart the flow of aid to Gaza immediately. Blocking goods supplies and power from entering Gaza risks breaching international humanitarian law. I am also troubled by the impact on healthcare services in Gaza. Medical staff and facilities must be protected, and civilians should be able to safely access medical treatment. I know Ministers are doing everything possible to alleviate this situation.
On the UK’s decision on arms exports to Israel, the Government followed a rigorous process in line with the UK’s legal obligations and concluded there is a clear risk that military exports to Israel, where used for military operations in Gaza, might be used in serious violations of international humanitarian law (IHL). It has suspended approximately 30 licences for exports to Israel for items which could be used in the current conflict. The suspension effectively covers all arms exports for use in the current conflict in Gaza. I know Ministers have assessed that there are no current licences for items that might be used to commit or facilitate a serious violation of IHL. The suspension will be kept under review.
Neither I nor the UK Government recognise the Occupied Palestinian Territories as part of Israel. Israeli settlements are illegal under international law, are an obstacle to peace and threaten the long-term stability of a two-state solution. I support recognition of a Palestinian state at a time most conducive to making statehood a reality. Palestinians must be given a credible route to Palestinian statehood, as is their inalienable right.
I know the UK Government continues to raise its concerns with the Israeli Government and work with international partners to bring about an end to the hostilities in Gaza. There remains no military solution to this conflict – a two-state solution remains the only path to a just and lasting peace.