Israel and Palestine: Gaza

Lord Hylton
asked Her Majesty's Government:

What action is being taken in the international arena to prevent any sudden upsurge of fighting in and around Gaza. [HL3391]

The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Malloch-Brown)
The situation in Gaza is of serious concern. It was addressed at a series of high-level international meetings in London on 2 May involving Palestinian Prime Minister Fayyad and Israeli Foreign Minister Livni. The quartet in its statement following the meetings called for an end to all violence and terror and urged all parties to take all feasible steps to ensure the protection of affected civilians in accordance with international law. We continue to make clear to all parties that further violence is in no one's interest.

Baroness Tonge
asked Her Majesty's Government:

What discussions they have had with the Government of Israel and the International Court of Justice about the status of Gaza. [HL3431]

Lord Malloch-Brown
My right honourable friend the Foreign Secretary has had many discussions with the Israeli Government regarding the status of Gaza. My right honourable friend the Foreign Secretary discusses Gaza frequently with Israeli Foreign Minister Livni. At the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee meeting in London on 2 May, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza was discussed by members of the delegation. We have not spoken to the International Court of Justice recently regarding the status of Gaza. We unequivocally condemn the rocket and sniper attacks on Israel from Gaza. But any response by Israel should be in accordance with international law, including the Fourth Geneva Convention. We deplore civilian casualties on both sides. All parties must abide by their commitments under international law.