Statement: Violence in East Jerusalem

Over recent days I have received numerous emails from constituents about the situation in Sheikh Jarrah, East Jerusalem and the violence at Al-Aqsa Mosque.

I share their serious concerns about the shocking scenes of violence directed against the Palestinian population of East Jerusalem. I have personally spoken to the ministerial team at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office to emphasise the strong feelings expressed by so many local residents in the Aylesbury area.

I have been reassured that the UK Government regularly voice clear concerns about the evictions of Palestinians from their homes in East Jerusalem to the Israeli authorities and to the Municipality of Jerusalem. Our Ambassador in Tel Aviv has also raised this issue directly with the Israeli Government, as has the Minister of State for the Middle East, James Cleverly MP, with the Israeli Ambassador in London. The British Consul-General to Jerusalem personally visited families at risk of eviction in Sheikh Jarrah last month, and other officials from the consulate have continued to make regular visits to the area.

The UK is absolutely clear that evictions from their homes causes unnecessary suffering to ordinary Palestinians. This action calls into question Israel's commitment to a viable two-state solution and, in all but the most exceptional of cases, is contrary to International Humanitarian Law and the Fourth Geneva Convention.

I wholeheartedly and emphatically join ministers in calling for the evictions to cease with immediate effect. 

I deplore the recent violent unrest that we have seen in Sheikh Jarrah and beyond, including at Al-Aqsa Mosque. I condemn the violence against Palestinians in East Jerusalem, but I must equally condemn the use of rockets against Israeli civilians.

I urge all parties concerned to work together to facilitate a calm and speedy de-escalation, in recognition that peace can only be achieved through diplomatic negotiation and cooperation.