Government Response

The Government responded to this petition on Monday 6th November 2023

The UK supports Israel’s right to self-defence in line with international humanitarian law. We will continue to lead and support efforts towards a two state solution between Israel and the PA.

On 7 October Hamas terrorists brutally murdered over 1400 people. They raped, maimed, and took the lives of ordinary civilians. Their attack began on that day and hasn’t stopped since, with Hamas continuing to fire thousands of rockets at Israel. We have a proud history of standing with states against terrorism, of which this is a part.

We support Israel’s legitimate right to defend itself and take action against terrorism, and we continue to urge all sides to adhere to international humanitarian law. We continue to urge Israel to ensure its campaign is targeted against Hamas leaders and military infrastructure. It’s vital that all parties ensure their actions are proportionate, necessary and minimise harm to civilians. In all their engagements with Israeli counterparts, UK Government Ministers – including the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary – have pressed this point.

Hamas does not speak for or act in the interests of the Palestinian people. Hamas deliberately murdered and kidnapped innocent people in Israel and now callously puts civilians in Gaza at risk. At least 12 British nationals were tragically killed in the terrorist attacks by Hamas. Several others are feared dead or kidnapped by Hamas.

As the Prime Minister said, we stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people, who are also victims of Hamas. Since Hamas’ terrorist attack against Israel on 7 October the UK has committed £30 million in additional aid to the Occupied Palestinian Territories – more than doubling our existing aid commitment for this year. This will allow trusted partners to provide essential relief items and services such as food, water and shelter.

The UK has strong bilateral relationships with both Israel and the Palestinian Authority. What we want to see is both Israelis and Palestinians safe and secure, not living under the constant threat of terrorism, in peaceful proximity. We continue to work with international partners to lead and support efforts towards a two-state solution that allows both Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and dignity.

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

Parliamentary Debate

This petition was debated in Parliament on Monday 11th December 2023

See Debate Details