Source · Select Committees · Foreign Affairs Committee
Recommendation 14
14
Acknowledged
UK is well-placed to deploy its convening power for Middle East peace processes.
Conclusion
While the UK is no longer a dominant power in the Middle East, it does enjoy the respect of most countries in the region. Consequently, it is well placed to deploy its convening power to bring together conflicting and diverse parties. The involvement of states in the region that have reached peace agreements with Israel after years of animosity, or are moving towards normalised relations with Israel, is vital. (Conclusion, Paragraph 83)
Government Response Summary
The government agrees, supporting regional normalisation and encouraging countries with normalised relations to participate in peace efforts. It states the UK supports broader efforts towards a two-state solution.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The government agrees with this recommendation. The Government supports normalisation within the region and wider which would afford many opportunities for increased trade and an enhanced exchange of views. We encourage those countries that have normalised relations with Israel to take part in peace efforts. We note in this context that PA President Abbas, in his 9 June letter to France’s President Macron, wrote: ‘The PLO has recognized the right of Israel to exist over 30 years ago, a recognition that binds the State of Palestine to this day’. The UK supports efforts in the region and wider to work towards a longer peace which makes a two-state solution realistic. In that regard, we note the Arab League’s fulsome agreement to the Outcome Document from the Two State Solution Conference. Further steps on normalisation can support those efforts. Recommendation 16