Thank you for contacting me about Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs).
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.
This includes the demolition of Palestinian homes and Israeli settlements in the OPTs. Indeed, the UK is clear that these actions cause unnecessary suffering to ordinary Palestinians, call into question Israel's commitment to a viable two-state solution, and, in all but the most exceptional of cases, are contrary to International Law. They are also counterproductive in light of the normalisation agreements reached between Israel, UAE, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco.
On the issue of bilateral trade, the UK does not recognise the OPTs and settlements there as part of Israel. Goods from settlements are not covered by the UK-Israel Trade and Partnership Agreement and do not receive preferential tariff treatment. While it is ultimately a decision for an individual or company as to whether to operate in the settlements in the OPTs, the UK Government neither encourages nor offers support to individuals or companies who operate in settlements in the OPTs.
To this end, I know that the UK repeatedly calls on Israel – both bilaterally and via the UN – to abide by its obligations under international law and is in close dialogue with Israel regarding various issues relating to the occupation. The UK continues to urge all parties to de-escalate.
Indeed, Israel and the OPTs remain a human rights priority for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). Befitting this, Ministers in London and officials in Tel Aviv continue to monitor all issues relating to the occupation and raise concerns with the relevant authorities, and via the appropriate multilateral fora, accordingly.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.