Written question asked by Claudia Webbe (Independent (affiliation)) on Friday, 5 January 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 9 January 2024. It was answered by Andrew Mitchell (Conservative) on Monday, 22 January 2024 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Israel: Palestinians

Question: To ask the Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, whether his Department has made an assessment of the accuracy of allegations of the use of white phosphorus use in the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Answer: We support Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas, but it must comply with International Humanitarian Law; we keep under continuous review whether they are abiding by their obligations. We are deeply concerned about the impact on the civilian population in Gaza and recognise that too many civilians have been killed. We want to see Israel take greater care to limit its operations to military targets and avoid harming civilians and destroying homes. We continue to call for IHL to be respected and civilians to be protected.

Secondary information