Israel and the UN

Thank you for contacting me about Israel and the UN. 

Israel and the UK share a deep and meaningful relationship and I welcome the UK Government’s commitment to promoting trade and business ties with Israel and its strong opposition to the Boycotts, Divestment and Sanctions Movement. 

Our close friendship with Israel does not prohibit our criticism of some Israeli policies. Nor does it stand in the way of the UK acting in honest accordance with our clear and long-standing position; the commitment to a two-state solution, where two sovereign states live side by side in peace and mutual respect. The UK regularly calls upon all sides to desist from engaging in activities that undermine this end and this is reflected in the UK's voting record at the UN and diplomatic activity in general. 

The UK has been a major contributor to the UN since its inception 75 years ago, occupying a prominent role within it, and defends wholeheartedly its role as a place where issues of international concern can be discussed productively and respectfully. 

To be clear, none of the above should be construed as resulting from a bias against Israel. On the contrary, the UK regularly raises issues of concern in a wide range of countries, via the UN and bilaterally, including with our closest and most longstanding allies, of which Israel is one. 

Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.