Prefer Jewish News on Google
New Middle East minister urges Israel to take meaningful action over settler violence
Stephen Doughty emphasised that all violence is unacceptable, including attacks against Israeli civilians
New Middle East minister Stephen Doughty has urged the Israeli government to take “meaningful action to prevent and prosecute acts of settler violence” against Palestinians in the West Bank.
In his first statement as Middle East minister, Doughty condemned the “appalling” attacks by Israeli settlers on Palestinian villages and communities.
He highlighted arson attacks against mosques in Qusra and Kour, as well as deadly incidents in Deir Jarir, Beit Furik and Tel. “The last of which saw both Israelis and Palestinians killed,” he noted.
The Welsh MP emphasised that all violence is unacceptable, including attacks against Israelis.
“Civilians should always be protected, international law upheld, and the perpetrators held to account,” Doughty added.
“Security measures must be proportionate, consistent with international law, and contribute to de-escalation rather than further inflaming tensions.”
“The Government of Israel must protect the Palestinian population of the occupied territory and take meaningful action to prevent and prosecute acts of settler violence. Too often, perpetrators have acted with impunity, fuelling further extremist violence,” he said.
He went on to stress that the UK condemns threats to expand illegal settlements and outposts as a response to violence.
“Settlements are illegal under international law, undermine the viability of a two-state solution, and fuel insecurity for both Palestinians and Israelis,” he said.
Doughty added: “The UK remains committed to a negotiated two-state solution, with a safe and secure Israel alongside a sovereign and viable Palestinian state. This remains the only credible path to lasting peace and security.”
The experienced minister replaced Hamish Falconer in the Middle East brief in changes announced by Andy Burnham.
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
