Written question asked by Beth Winter (Labour) on Tuesday, 12 March 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 14 March 2024. It was answered by Andrew Mitchell (Conservative) on Wednesday, 20 March 2024 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Gaza: Israel

Question: To ask the Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, with reference to the Minister of State's oral contribution of 12 March 2024, Official Report, columns 133-34, what assessment he has made of Israel's observation of its requirements under Articles (a) 16, (b) 17 and (c) 18 of Geneva Convention (IV).

Answer: It is our position that Israel retains obligations as the Occupying Power in Gaza. Although after 2005 there was no permanent physical Israeli presence in Gaza, given the significant control Israel had over Gaza's borders, airspace and territorial waters, Israel retained obligations as an occupying power under the Fourth Geneva Convention. In situations of occupation, international humanitarian law expressly requires the occupier, to the fullest extent of the means available to it, to ensure the food and medical supplies of the population of the occupied territory. We expect Israel to fulfil its obligations and for all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 18309
Session: 2023-24
Related items: Humanitarian Situation in Gaza
Tuesday, 12 March 2024
Oral answers to questions
House of Commons
Grouped for answer: Yes
Subjects: Armed conflict Humanitarian aid Geneva Conventions Israel Gaza
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk