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Conservative MPs voiced their concerns about the threat from Hamas and Iran to Israel, during Foreign Office (FCDO) questions this week.
MP for Hendon Dr Matthew Offord highlighted the Gazan terror group Hamas’s commitment to Israel’s destruction as a barrier to successful peace talks, stating: “The successful conclusion of peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians is key to bringing peace to the region, yet Hamas publicly condemn peace negotiations and has committed itself to Israel’s destruction”.
He asked: “Does my right hon. Friend agree that until Hamas disarms, Israel cannot be expected to negotiate with a terror group which calls for its very destruction?”
Middle East Minister Rt. Hon. James Cleverly MP underlined in his response that “Hamas have not proven themselves to be good for the Palestinian people”, adding that Hamas has “long been a road block” to peace. He stressed: “We call upon them to set aside their violent ways and to pursue a path to peace”.
James Sunderland MP underlined that as nuclear talks continue in Vienna, there are “fears that Iran gets ever closer to a nuclear weapon”. He asked the Foreign Secretary “will my right hon. Friend please convince the House of what is happening to maintain peace in the Middle East?”
Foreign Secretary Liz Truss MP said in response that “all options are on the table”.
The Foreign Secretary said: “This negotiation is urgent, and progress has not been fast enough. We continue to work in close partnership with our allies, but the negotiations are reaching a dangerous impasse. Iran must now choose whether it wants to conclude a deal or be responsible for the collapse of the JCPOA. If the JCPOA collapses, all options are on the table”.
