FCDO Statement on Israel and Palestine

This statement in Parliament marks a decisive and historic shift in the UK’s approach to the Middle East.

We cannot stand by while international law is undermined. Working closely with international partners is vital to achieving a lasting peace. That is why the UK is taking joint action alongside France and Canada, following similar measures by Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, and Norway. Together with a total of 12 nations, we are sending an unambiguous message against illegal expansion and settler violence.

To uphold the two-state solution, the government is taking direct action:

-Declaring the occupation of the West Bank unlawful, aligning UK policy with the International Court of Justice findings.

-Explicitly calling out “settler terrorists” attempting the ethnic cleansing of Palestinian communities.

-Acknowledging that systemic war crimes have been committed in the occupied territories.

-Imposing an immediate import ban on all goods originating from illegal settlements.

-Launching a comprehensive sanctions regime against those providing services, construction, or financing for illegal settlements.

-Banning the advertising or marketing of properties in illegal settlements within the UK.

-Enacting personal sanctions against key individuals accused of promoting and inciting settler violence.

-Implementing a new ban on arms licences and exports that materially contribute to the occupation.

This comprehensive reset is not aimed at Israel or its people, but at defending international law. True safety and dignity for both Israelis and Palestinians can only be achieved by firmly securing a viable, independent, and sovereign Palestinian state alongside a secure Israel.

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