Gaza and Israel: International Law

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office written question – answered at on 13 November 2023.

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Photo of Crispin Blunt Crispin Blunt Conservative, Reigate

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has had recent discussions with his Israeli counterpart on the compliance of its instruction to residents of Gaza City to move south with the fourth Geneva Convention.

Photo of Crispin Blunt Crispin Blunt Conservative, Reigate

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he plans to make an assessment of the adequacy of Israel's compliance with the Geneva convention during its operations in Gaza.

Photo of David Rutley David Rutley Assistant Whip (HM Treasury), Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The UK is steadfast in its position that all states should uphold International Humanitarian Law, and we call on our friends and partners to do so. Israel has the right to defend itself proportionately, and its military operations must be conducted in accordance with International Humanitarian Law. Distinction must be made between civilians and combatants and only direct attacks against suspected combatants and other military objectives are to be made. Both the Prime Minister and the former Foreign Secretary have, in their discussions with their Israeli counterparts, emphasised the importance of taking all possible measures to protect civilians. Israeli President Isaac Herzog has stated that Israel will operate in accordance with international law.

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