Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment he has made of the potential implications for his policies of (a) the level of terrorist activity in the West Bank and (b) Iran's support for terrorism in the West Bank through weapons smuggling.

The UK remains concerned by the threat of terrorism in the West Bank and strongly condemns all acts of terrorism. Stability in the West Bank is crucial to ensure any ceasefire in Gaza can last. All sides should work to ensure a lowering of tension in the West Bank at this time. The UK is seriously concerned by the expansion of Israel's operations in the West Bank. We recognise Israel's security concerns, but it must show restraint and ensure its operations are commensurate to the threat posed. The UK has also been clear that Hamas cannot play a role in the future of Gaza. The UK is clear that all parties in Gaza must re-engage with negotiations to get hostages out and secure a permanent end to this conflict.

Iran's long-standing support for terrorist groups across the Middle East, including those active in the West Bank, destabilises the region and jeopardises international security. The Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary have made clear to their Iranian counterparts that Iran must restrain these groups and cease providing them with support.