Gaza: Israel
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he plans to make an assessment of Israel's compliance with international humanitarian law in the context of its airstrikes in the Israeli-designated safe zone in Al-Mawasi in southern Gaza on 13 July 2024.
Answered by Mr Hamish Falconer
On 2 September 2024 we suspended export licences to Israel for use in military operations in Gaza, following a review into Israel's compliance with International Humanitarian Law (IHL) which concluded there was a clear risk that some UK exports might be used to commit or facilitate a serious violation of IHL. Our ongoing IHL assessments are informed by legal advice, and supported by a detailed evidence base, including reporting and analysis from international bodies, Non-Governmental Organisations and partner countries and analysis of military incidents - including airstrikes - verified through an independent third-party provider. The assessments continue to raise concerns about possible breaches of IHL in the areas of humanitarian access and in the treatment of detainees. The lack of sufficient verifiable evidence about individual incidents means that in the majority of cases we are unable to reach a determination of Israel's compliance. However, our findings in relation to conduct in other areas give us cause for concern about Israel's overall commitment to IHL, including in the conduct of hostilities.
We are appalled by civilian casualties in Gaza and urgently call for an immediate return to a ceasefire. All parties must re-engage with negotiations to get hostages out, surge aid, and secure a permanent end to this conflict.
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