I am grateful for you sharing this report with me, which I read with great interest. Of course, the crime of apartheid is an incredibly serious matter, and the UK would take appropriate action to stamp it out wherever needed. However, I do not agree with the terminology of this report that accuses Israel of apartheid. Any judgment on whether serious crimes under international law have occurred is a matter for judicial decision, rather than for governments or non-judicial bodies.
As a friend of Israel, we have a regular dialogue on human rights. This includes encouraging the government of Israel to abide by its obligations under international law and do all it can to uphold the values of equality for all. I reject expressions like apartheid or a one-sided focus of criticism on Israel, as it is not helpful to solving the conflict in the Middle East.
Regarding the Palestine issue more broadly, the UK's position, which I support, is clear and longstanding. There should be a negotiated settlement leading to a safe and secure Israel living alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state, based on 1967 borders with agreed land swaps, Jerusalem as the shared capital of both states, and a fair and realistic settlement for refugees. The UK consistently calls – bilaterally and via the UN – for an immediate end to all actions that undermine the viability of the two-state solution.
The UK has said that it will recognise a Palestinian state at a time when it best serves the objective of peace. Bilateral recognition in itself cannot end the occupation; without a negotiated settlement the occupation and the problems that come with it will continue.
In the interim, therefore, the UK, working with allies and the wider international community, will do all it can to facilitate renewed cooperation and substantive negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians. As part of this effort, it will continue to call on both sides to desist with immediate effect from all activities that undermine progress towards a peaceful two-state solution.
Thank you once again for getting in touch and if I can be of further assistance with any other matter, then please do not hesitate to contact me.
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