The UK has also been clear that evictions of Palestinians from their homes causes significant suffering and tension and is contrary to International Humanitarian Law and the Fourth Geneva Convention. Ministers have consistently called for them to cease with immediate effect. The UK Ambassador in Tel Aviv has raised this issue with the Israeli Authorities, as has the Minister of State, James Cleverly, with the Israeli Ambassador in London. In fact the British Consul General to Jerusalem visited families at risk of eviction in Sheikh Jarrah on 3 May to reiterate the UK's opposition to the practice. The UK has also made our position clear on the world stage, such as at the UN Security Council and General Assembly in recent weeks.
Furthermore, the UK has been clear that violence against peaceful worshippers at the al-Aqsa mosque was unacceptable. The Status Quo in Jerusalem is important at all times, especially during religious festivals such as Ramadan, and the UK was proactive in encouraging all to maintain calm, avoid provocation and uphold the safety and security of Al Haram Al Sharif/Temple Mount and all who worship there.
I have supported statements from the Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary in light of recent violence and loss of life, urging all parties to de-escalate. Over the last few weeks the UK has repeatedly called for a ceasefire and worked with UN counterparts, particularly Egypt and Qatar to broker a ceasefire and improve the humanitarian situation. I am glad to see that such a ceasefire has now been agreed. In the long term however, it is essential that a peace deal is achieved, securing a peaceful two-state solution.
Like all colleagues I welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, effective as of 21 May. This is an essential step to ending the cycle of violence and loss of civilian life. All sides must now work together to consolidate the ceasefire and to find a durable solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict which will end the cycle of violence and deliver a sustainable and just peace.
