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Palestine: Fire and Rescue Services

Asked by Stephen GethinsScottish National PartyForeign, Commonwealth and Development OfficeTabled Answered 7 January 2026UIN 100907

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, pursuant to the Answer of 12 March 2025 to Question 36087 on Palestinians: Fire and Rescue Services, what progress she has made on discussions with Israeli counterparts regarding the fire engine donated to Palestinian firefighters in Nablus that has been held by the port authorities in Ashdod since 21 July 2024.

Answered by Mr Hamish Falconer

We have consistently raised this case with the Israeli authorities, but despite those efforts, the fire engine donated to Palestinian firefighters is still being held by the port authorities. It remains frustrating and disappointing that the donation may have to be returned to the UK, rather than helping to deliver lifesaving services for the people of Nablus. The UK's Consul General to Jerusalem visited the Nablus Municipal Fire Department on 9 December to convey our continued backing for their vital work.

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