Thank you for contacting me about the conflict in the Middle East. The events which have unfolded in the Middle East since 7 October have been unbearable to witness, and we all want to see an end to the conflict. While Israel suffered the worst terror attack in its history at the hands of Hamas, Palestinian civilians continue to face a devastating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. My thoughts are with all those who are suffering and held unjustly against their will. It is vital that international law be respected and civilians protected, and that, as the occupying power in Gaza, Israel ensures that humanitarian aid, including food, water and shelter is available to innocent civilians. The international community has a duty to do all it can to bring an end to the war, and to ensure that those responsible for breaking international rules of engagement, and those with a blatant disregard for human rights, are held to account for their actions. With regards the International Court of Justice (ICJ), I do have serious concerns about South Africa’s case, and do not believe it to be helpful in the goal of achieving a sustainable end to this conflict. Although formal determination of genocide should be based upon the final judgment of a competent court, I share the view of the previous UK Government that Israel’s actions in Gaza cannot be described as genocide. The announcement by the UK Government of the suspension of 30 arms export licences to Israel will do little to end the conflict. As many commentators have pointed out, it will have little impact on the conflict, as other UK export licences continue to operate, and the decision was not coordinated with UK allies in the international community. Please be assured that I will continue to follow developments closely, and do all that I can to support efforts towards a lasting peace settlement, based on the two state solution to the conflict. Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
