Written question asked by Lord Hylton (Crossbench), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Howell of Guildford (Conservative) on Tuesday, 30 November 2010.

Israel

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether they are involved in negotiations with the Government of Israel regarding withdrawal from military positions in the village of Ghajar; whether they are aware of such involvement by any third party; and whether they foresee any consequential issues between Syria and Lebanon.

Answer: We welcome Israel's recent announcement of their intention to accept proposals put forward by the UN and UN Interim Force in Lebanon to withdraw Israeli Defence Force troops from the northern part of Ghajjar. We have not been involved in negotiations, but have regularly called on all parties to fulfil their obligations under UN Security Council Resolutions, including 1701, and will continue to do so. Israel and the UN should now work together to agree practical measures to implement this proposal as soon as is possible.

Secondary information