The UK Government remains completely committed to achieving a two state solution to the conflict in the region. For this reason, the Government deeply regrets the decision by the Israeli High Court of Justice to demolish the village of Khan al-Ahmar and construct over 3,100 new settlements. Many of these settlements are located on the West Bank. The Minister for the Middle East, Alistair Burt has stressed that my colleagues in Government have raised strong concerns with the Israeli officials over the demolitions at Khan al-Ahmar and repeatedly called on the Israeli Government to halt their action. In addition, a British official from the UK Consulate General in Jerusalem visited Khan al-Ahmar to show British support for the community.
Demolitions and evictions of Palestinians from their homes causes unnecessary suffering; calls into question Israel's commitment to a viable two-state solution; and, in all but exceptional cases, are contrary to international humanitarian law.
I firmly believe that the international community must redouble its efforts to support a comprehensive peace agreement that delivers an independent Palestine alongside a safe and secure Israel and I know that the Foreign Secretary shares this view. A two-state solution brought about through agreement is the most effective way for Palestinian aspirations of statehood to be met.
I must remind constituents that I, alongside many of my fellow MP's, do not sign Early Days Motions (EDMs).
