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Written question asked by Baroness Altmann (Conservative) on Wednesday, 15 May 2024, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 30 May 2024. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Thursday, 23 May 2024 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Gaza: Palestinian Islamic Jihad

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what implications the statement by Nabeel Rajab Abed Shteiwi that Palestinian Islamic Jihad is using al-Shifa hospital and schools as shelter will have for their policies in the region.

Answer

Hamas and other terrorist organisations are putting Palestinian civilians at grave risk by embedding themselves in the civilian population and civilian infrastructure. The UK is aware of reports of Hamas and other terrorist organisations using healthcare facilities and other infrastructure, such as schools, as bases and command nodes.

This does not absolve parties from their responsibility to ensure that their actions are compliant with International Humanitarian Law, and minimise harm to civilians. The UK is particularly clear that civilian buildings must not be targeted, and extra care must be taken in relation to hospitals and other medical facilities.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL4671
Session
2023-24
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Hospitals Schools Gaza Palestinian Islamic Jihad
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk