Israel and Gaza Debate

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Department: Cabinet Office

Israel and Gaza

Tahir Ali Excerpts
Monday 16th October 2023

(1 year, 2 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Tahir Ali Portrait Tahir Ali (Birmingham, Hall Green) (Lab)
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The Prime Minister has reaffirmed his commitment to a two-state solution. Why, then, have his Government failed to recognise the state of Palestine when 138 United Nations member countries have done so? Israel has absolutely every right to defend itself, but Palestinians need to have that right as well. If recognised as a state, Palestine will be able to root out terrorism and defend its territory. Do the unjustifiable actions of Hamas—a group that do not represent Palestinians—justify the collective punishment of innocent Palestinian civilians in Gaza by the Israeli defence forces?

Rishi Sunak Portrait The Prime Minister
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The United Kingdom Government’s long-standing position under both parties has been that the United Kingdom will recognise a Palestinian state at a time when it best serves the object of peace. We are committed to the objective of a sovereign, prosperous and peaceful Palestinian state living side by side with a safe and secure Israel. As last week’s attack demonstrates, right now we must ensure that Israel has that security.