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 statement addressed the recent escalation of violence in the West Bank and Gaza, as well as the ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. The minister expressed deep concern over the loss of civilian life, the destruction of civilian infrastructure, and the immense suffering experienced by both the Israeli and Palestinian people. The government has been urging all parties to engage in diplomatic efforts to resolve their disagreements and reach a peaceful resolution. The minister also discussed the government's review of arms export licenses to Israel. Based on the assessment, the government has concluded that there is a clear risk that certain UK arms exports to Israel could be used to commit or facilitate serious violations of international humanitarian law. 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 an arms embargo, and the suspension only targets items that might be used in the current conflict. The government will continue to work with allies to improve the situation and keep the position under review. The minister also reiterated the UK's support for Israel's right to self-defense in accordance with international law. Additionally, the statement addressed the government's efforts to challenge Iran's reckless and destabilizing activity in the region, including through the imposition of new sanctions on four Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps force targets. The government remains committed to standing up to Iranian aggression and malign activity wherever it is found. The minister concluded by reaffirming the government's commitment to working with Israel and its partners to tackle the threat from Iran across the region, while ensuring that their actions are consistent with their obligations under domestic and international law.