Written question asked by Bishop of Southwark (Bishops (affiliation)) on Tuesday, 21 July 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 4 August 2026. It was answered by Lord Wood of Anfield (Labour) on Friday, 31 July 2026 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

West Bank: Cultural Heritage

Question: To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have held with the government of Israel regarding the threat made by the Israeli Minister of Finance to take control of Solomon's Pools in Area A of the West Bank.

Answer: We are concerned by increasing tensions and instability across the West Bank. The UK has consistently made clear to the Government of Israel that any unilateral attempt to alter the geographic or demographic make-up of Palestine is wholly unacceptable and would be inconsistent with international law. The UK remains firmly committed to a two-state solution, with a safe and secure Israel alongside a sovereign, viable and free Palestine. We continue to engage with Israeli counterparts on developments in the West Bank.

Secondary information