Middle East Update

The Foreign Secretary has delivered a statement to the House of Commons regarding the situation in the Middle East. The minister emphasized that the government's priority in the region is to advance the cause of peace, and they have been working with allies and partners to push for a diplomatic solution to the conflicts. The minister acknowledged the immense suffering and loss of civilian life caused by the ongoing violence, particularly in Gaza, where the government believes Israel could do more to ensure that lifesaving aid reaches civilians. The minister also expressed concern over credible claims of mistreatment of detainees, which the International Committee of the Red Cross has been denied access to investigate. While recognizing that Hamas and other hostile actors have endangered civilian lives through their tactics, the minister stated that the government must assess Israel's compliance with international humanitarian law when considering arms export licenses. As a result, the government is suspending around 30 of the approximately 350 licenses to Israel, specifically those related to equipment that could be used in the current conflict in Gaza. The minister emphasized that this is not a blanket ban or arms embargo, and the suspension only targets items that might be used in the current conflict. Licenses for items not being used by the Israel Defense Forces, as well as those for civilian use and the international F-35 program, will continue. The minister acknowledged that this decision was not taken lightly, as previous governments from various political parties have also chosen not to license exports to Israel in certain circumstances. However, the minister reiterated the government's support for Israel's right to self-defense in accordance with international law. The statement also addressed the government's commitment to challenging Iran's reckless and destabilizing activity in the region, including through the announcement of new sanctions on four Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps force targets. The government will continue to work with partners to stand up to Iranian aggression and contain its weapons development. The minister concluded by reaffirming the government's determination to work with Israel and its partners to tackle the threat from Iran, while also ensuring that its actions are consistent with domestic and international law.