UNHRC Israel Vote

Thank you for contacting me about UNHRC Israel vote.

Like you I am deeply distressed by the deaths and injuries in Gaza. The violence is shocking and tragic. There are a number of important facts which need to be established urgently, including why live fire was used. Israel has a legitimate right to defend itself, but the number of those killed and injured demonstrates that we need Israel to show greater restraint. The Government is supportive of an independent and transparent investigation into the violence.

As you say, the UK abstained on a recent resolution at the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC), for a commission of inquiry into the recent violence in Gaza. Ministers have been clear that the substance of the resolution lacked impartiality and was unbalanced. The key reason for the UK abstention was that the investigation would not have examined the role of non-state actors in the violence, including Hamas. I am clear that any such investigation would not provide a comprehensive assessment of accountability. Fourteen other countries came to the same conclusion, including four other EU member states.

I want to emphasise again that the Government continues to support the need for an independent and transparent investigation. Israel needs to conduct an inquiry into the actions of the Israeli Defence Forces and demonstrate how this inquiry will be independent. The Government has also made clear that the investigation should include international participation. Once the inquiry has been concluded, the findings should be made public and those who are found to have acted wrongly, held to account.

Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.