Gaza: Humanitarian Situation

Helen Hayes Excerpts

Tuesday 28th January 2025 Commons Chamber

[Anneliese Dodds]

The UK is fully committed to international law and respects the independence of both the ICC and the ICJ. Yes, there must be access to such supplies.

[Helen Hayes (Dulwich and West Norwood) (Lab)]

I thank the Minister for her statement and the announcement of additional investment in aid to Gaza, which is very welcome. I have visited UNRWA schools and healthcare facilities in the west bank, and the role that UNRWA plays in the provision of essential services, including aid to Palestinians, is unique and irreplaceable. The implementation of the Knesset’s decision to ban UNRWA could therefore amount to the denial of health services, education and essential aid to a population that has already suffered unbearably for the past 15 months. Can the Minister say not only that the UK Government oppose the decision, but what will be done to hold the Israeli Government to account for the impact of that decision, if it is implemented later this week?

[Anneliese Dodds]

The UK has already acted to make it clear that there must be a resolution to this urgent issue. We have joined allies in expressing our deep concerns about the Knesset’s vote on UNRWA. We have urged Israel to ensure that UNRWA can continue its lifesaving work, including at the UN Security Council on 6 November, 11 December and 3 January.