To ask the Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, what recent steps his Department has taken to comply with its duties under Articles I and VIII of the Genocide Convention in the context of the war in Gaza.
This answer is the replacement for a previous holding answer.
Answered on
17 January 2024
As a party to the Convention, the UK is fully committed to the prevention and punishment of genocide as appropriate under the Convention.
In terms of the situation in Gaza, we recognise that Israel has the right to defend itself against Hamas, in accordance with International Humanitarian Law (IHL). We do not believe that calling this genocide is the right approach. It is wrong to suggest that Israeli leadership, and Israel as a country, have the intention to commit genocide.
Ultimately, it is for the courts to decide on matters of genocide, not for states. We respect the role and independence of the International Court of Justice.