New Middle East minister urges Israel to take meaningful action over settler violence

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.