Plaid Cymru's spokesperson on foreign affairs, MP, has challenged the Prime
Minister on the recognition of Palestinian statehood during a
session in Parliament, calling for clear action towards achieving
a political settlement in the Middle East.
Mr Lake referred back to comments made by Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary at the UN. In reference to
Russia, Sir Keir told the UN General Assembly that “we must stand
up for international law”, and that if we do not stand with
Ukraine, it would confirm that “international law is merely a
paper tiger and that aggressors can do what they will”. Mr Lammy
told the Security Council that peace in Ukraine must “respect the
fundamental principles that underpin the United Nations” –
“sovereignty and territorial integrity”.
Plaid Cymru have called for a consistent application of
international law, and for Israel to be held to account for its
breaches.
Last week, the UK abstained on a vote on the UN General Assembly
resolution on the ICJ's Advisory Opinion on Israel's presence in
the Occupied Palestinian Territories. The resolution demanded
that Israel end its “unlawful presence” in the occupied West Bank
and the Gaza Strip within a year.
In the House of Commons on Monday, MP asked the Prime Minister – in
light of his comments on international law – what consideration
are the Government giving to official recognition of Palestinian
statehood.
MP said:
“Both the Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary delivered
important statements at the UN last month, emphasising the
importance of upholding both the principles and the purposes of
the UN charter as a foundation for the rules-based international
order.
“The Prime Minister rightly states today that a political
settlement is the only route to a lasting peace and stability in
the region. In working towards that aim, what consideration are
the Government giving to official recognition of Palestinian
statehood?”
The Prime Minister responded:
“The question of recognition is a question of when, not if.”
[Interruption – Members ask “when?”]
“Well, at the point of greatest impact. We need a two-state
solution. We need to work with our allies towards that end. We
will continue to do so, because this conflict will not
de-escalate until there is a political route through.”
