Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions he has had with the incoming US Administration on securing the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.

Whilst we have not had any official discussions with the incoming US administration regarding the release of hostages, our position remains clear. It is appalling that hostages taken by Hamas terrorists on 7 October are still being held captive, including one British national, Emily Damari, and three hostages with strong British links. We have supported hostage talks throughout, and continue to work alongside our allies and partners in the region, exercising every possible diplomatic lever to see the hostages immediately and unconditionally released. We thank the US, Qatar, Egypt, and all international partners, for their coordinating efforts. Ensuring the release of all hostages remains a top priority for this government.