Written question asked by Baroness Tonge (Non-affiliated) on Thursday, 3 September 2020, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 17 September 2020. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Wednesday, 16 September 2020 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Jerusalem: Palestinians

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they plan to take to protect Palestinian medical facilities in East Jerusalem from violent incursions by the Israel Defence Forces.

Answer: The UK is concerned by any reports of incursions into, or demolitions of, Palestinian medical facilities by Israeli authorities. In all but the most exceptional circumstances demolitions are contrary to International Humanitarian Law (IHL). Such actions also weaken the capacity of Palestinians to withstand the impact of COVID-19. Under IHL, an occupying power has the duty of ensuring and maintaining public health and hygiene in the occupied territory to the fullest extent of the means available to it. We call on both parties to avoid any provocative action which might undermine the cooperation that is so critical.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: HL7829
Session: 2019-21
Related items: Israel: Palestinians
Tuesday, 6 October 2020
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects: Armed forces Health services Israel Palestine Jerusalem
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk