To ask the Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, what recent discussions he has had with his counterparts in (a) EU and (b) African Union countries on (i) preventing a possible genocide in Gaza and (ii) providing accountability for possible violations of the Genocide Convention in Gaza.
Answered on
17 January 2024
The UK Government closely follows the security situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territories and maintains a regular dialogue with international counterparts.
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.