Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between John Howell and Boris Johnson

Tuesday 21st February 2017 Commons Chamber

[Boris Johnson]

Yes, I certainly can—and, if I may say so, I think the hon. Gentleman misrepresents what the US President said.

[John Howell (Henley) (Con)]

21. Were the representations on settlements set in the context of Hamas fully restoring its military strength to levels before 2014—an illustration that peace does not entirely depend on this one issue?

[Boris Johnson]

We are aware of the preparations being made by Hamas in Gaza and we remain very concerned about the situation. It underscores the reality that while Israel is of course at fault for the expansion of settlements in the west bank—we have made that absolutely clear—on the other hand nobody should underestimate the very real security threat facing Israel. We are firmly on the side of the Israelis as they face that threat.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between John Howell and Boris Johnson

Tuesday 10th January 2017 Commons Chamber

[Boris Johnson]

It is very important to recognise that Iran is a malign influence across the region, and we must be very vigilant about what it is doing. On the other hand, we have to engage with Iran. I think the JCPOA—joint comprehensive plan of action—does represent, still, a substantial and valid way forward, and it would be regrettable if we were to junk that process now.

[John Howell (Henley) (Con)]

22. In looking at the steps to promote peace talks, what effect does the Foreign Secretary think the current level of Palestinian violence is going to have on that process?

[Boris Johnson]

As my hon. Friend will know, the level of violence, as we have discussed, has been down by comparison with 2015, but it is still too high. I think it was important, therefore, that the resolution, which has been so much discussed this morning, had that balance in it and that language in it pointing out the threat that Israel faces. It is important that we stress that, and that we encourage the Palestinians to understand that there can be no hope of peace unless they get their extremists under control.