😢 Northern Gaza

• The UK condemns Israel’s restrictions on aid to northern Gaza, describing the situation as a dire, man-made crisis.
• Approximately 46,000 people have been killed, and all of Gaza’s population faces the risk of famine.
• Continued Israeli air strikes within designated humanitarian zones leave no safe spaces for civilians.
• There are reports of children dying from cold weather conditions and medical facilities being inaccessible, with many medics killed or injured.
• The UK has provided £112 million for humanitarian aid in the Occupied Palestinian Territories this year, including support for healthcare and aid through UNRWA.
• The Government is pressing Israel to ensure adequate preparations for winter and to prevent the forced transfer of Gazans.
• A ceasefire, the release of hostages, and increased aid into Gaza are demanded to protect civilians.
• Personal stories of suffering, such as that of a surgeon named Mohamed, whose family members were killed or injured, highlight the human impact of the conflict.
• The UK has taken decisive action on arms sales related to the conflict and continues to review the situation.
• Discussions about a viable, long-term resolution for Gaza are ongoing, focusing on Palestinian governance and security.
• The Government emphasizes the need for Hamas to release all hostages and condemns the use of civilians as human shields.
• Allegations of war crimes, such as those in the Netzarim corridor, are being assessed by the UK.
• The UK has raised concerns about the detention of healthcare workers and the destruction of medical facilities with Israeli officials.
• There are deep concerns about potential ethnic cleansing in northern Gaza, with calls for Palestinians to be allowed to return home.
• The UK supports the 1967 boundaries and condemns illegal settlements, having taken sanctions against them.
• There is urgency in providing aid, as British aid is seen piling up at borders without reaching the people of Gaza.
• The situation for pregnant women and new mothers in Gaza is dire, with insufficient medical care and aid.
• The UK Government’s foreign policy on Israel and Gaza is independent, set in Whitehall, not Washington.
• There is frustration in Parliament over the lack of progress, with calls for stronger actions like sanctions and arms trade bans.
• The Government is considering the ICJ’s advisory opinion on a two-state solution and continues to support Palestinian territory as occupied.
• Ministers have met with UNRWA’s Commissioner-General, pledging further funding and raising concerns about the potential dismantling of UNRWA.
• There are repeated calls for a ceasefire and demands for consequences if Israel continues to breach international humanitarian law.

The session shows a moderate level of disagreement. While there is a general consensus on the gravity of the situation in northern Gaza and the need for action, the disagreements center around the adequacy and effectiveness of the UK government’s response. Various members express frustration over the perceived inaction or insufficient action, calling for stronger measures such as arms bans, sanctions, and recognition of a Palestinian state. The Minister, while acknowledging the frustration and the dire situation, defends the government’s actions and emphasizes ongoing diplomatic efforts and aid. There is a clear divergence on specific policies and their implementation, but the overall tone remains focused on seeking solutions despite differing views on the best approach.