Israel and Gaza at the Senedd: the story so far

In a BBC news story, former First Minister, Mark Drakeford MS, says:

The stories coming out of Israel and the Gaza Strip are horrifying. [The international community] has to move on to find new ways of offering people who live in Israel and the Palestinian people longer term prospects of success.

Darren Millar MS tables OPIN-2023-0369 Hamas Attacks on Israel, which is co-submitted by Alun Davies MS. At the time of publishing, 20 Members had signed the statement (including submitters). It reads:

The Llywydd invites party leaders to respond in the first Plenary session since the attacks.

Former First Minister, Mark Drakeford MS, says:

As we sit here in this Chamber, children, older people and the civilian population in Israel and in Gaza are in vivid fear for their lives, while grieving for those already lost. And the impact of those events is not confined to the streets of Israel and Gaza; they have a real impact here in Wales, in our own communities, and our thoughts are with all of those caught up in this enduring cycle of violence.

A two-state solution is the policy of the UK Government and of the United Nations. Beyond the horror of the coming days, the international community must come together to work again for a lasting peace, a secure peace, a peace that reaches into the everyday lives of the Israeli and the Palestinian people. And hard as it is, and made harder yet by the war that continues to unfold, the only path to a better future has to be a path of peace.

Leader of the Welsh Conservatives, Andrew RT Davies MS, says:

We must all support Israel's right of defence and making sure that its international borders are recognised and, ultimately, protected. What we also must remember is that, as the First Minister highlighted, as we sit in this Chamber here today, there are people cowering in basements, in community settings because missiles and rockets are going off indiscriminately, both in Israel and the Gaza Strip.

And it is something that we as a country, the United Kingdom, and the international community, and us here in Wales, must redouble our efforts on to bring peace to the communities that live in that part of the world, because without peace in the middle east, we do not have peace across the globe.

Leader of Plaid Cymru, Rhun ap Iorwerth MS, says:

We today think about everyone who has been affected directly by this, about the lives that have been lost, and we think of everyone of Israeli and Palestinian heritage in Wales who has been suffering while watching the events of the past few days.

We condemn the attacks by Hamas, and today we urge the international community to work together swiftly to persuade the relevant powers to introduce a ceasefire to allow the release of those held in Gaza against their will.

We also believe that the way that the Israeli Government has placed Gaza under siege, ceasing water and energy supplies, is impossible to justify. […] Worsening the violence is not the solution. The indiscriminate attacks on citizens will do nothing to alleviate tensions. The suffering facing ordinary people from all beliefs in this violent conflict have touched us all, and our thoughts are with each and every one of them in another dark chapter in the history of the region.

Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, Jane Dodds MS, says:

We fully condemn the terrorism of Hamas and Islamic jihad. I echo the comments of Layla Moran, the Liberal Democrat spokesperson on foreign affairs, herself of Palestinian descent, who said that civilians must be protected, and that we are especially horrified to hear about hostage taking, and that we condemn all of the violence. This is sadly a significant escalation. The United Nations said:

In conflict, civilians always pay the highest price. War is not the answer. We need peace.

To finish, I hope and pray that all efforts from everyone, everywhere will concentrate on negotiations, peace, safety and protection of all caught up in this horrendous conflict.

The Llywydd closes by saying that each leader:

has made a plea for peace in the middle east this afternoon, reflecting all of our views, I'm sure, in that regard.

During First Minister’s Questions, Leader of Plaid Cymru, Rhun ap Iorwerth MS, asks if the Welsh Government would make a “contribution, including a financial contribution, to that humanitarian effort in Gaza”.

The former First Minister, Mark Drakeford MS, describes the Welsh Government’s response, including potentially using its Faith Communities Forum, and says it’s “eager” to help people in Wales and to support UK-level action. He does not specifically address making a financial contribution.

The former Deputy Minister for Social Partnership, Hannah Blythyn MS, marks National Hate Crime Awareness Week, the theme of which is faith hate crime and antisemitism. She says Ministers are in contact with representatives of both the Jewish and Muslim communities and:

We are clear that the Welsh Government stands firmly against any form of antisemitism, Islamophobia and all faith-based hate crime.

In Plenary, Mabon ap Gwynfor MS repeats Plaid Cymru’s call for the Welsh Government to provide humanitarian aid, and asks for assurance that it is “using all of its powers” to call for a ceasefire. Former Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales and Trefnydd, Lesley Griffiths MS, responds:

I can assure you that Welsh Government is taking the steps to which you refer. I know both the First Minister and the Minister for Social Justice have really reached out to our faith groups here to see what more we can do to support them.

Obviously, international affairs is not a devolved matter, but I'm sure we all watch with absolute horror as these scenes unfold before us on our television screens every evening.

John Griffiths MS tables OPIN-2023-0370 Israel Gaza Conflict, which is co-submitted by Altaf Hussein MS, Jane Dodds MS and Peredur Owen Griffiths MS.

At the time of publishing, 28 Members had signed the statement (including submitters). It reads:

In Plenary, Darren Millar MS asks what action the Welsh Government’s taking to promote the adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA)’s definition of antisemitism by Wales’ further and higher education sectors.

The former Minister for Education and the Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles MS, responds that it’s a matter for universities and institutions but he’s been “clear” that he would like to see them do so.

On whether the Welsh Government would make funding contingent on adopting the IHRA’s definition, the former Minister describes meetings with advisers, leaders and communities. He agrees on the importance of “bearing down” on antisemitism and Islamophobia, including in the education system.

In a statement issued to the BBC, the former First Minister, Mark Drakeford MS, says:

I endorse the calls made by Keir Starmer for humanitarian pauses so that aid can urgently get to those who need it. A pause could create conditions which lead to a ceasefire and then on to the crucial next steps to provide a credible route to the peaceful resolution which is so desperately needed

The then Minister for Health and Social Services, Eluned Morgan MS, writes in a WalesOnline article saying that:

Last week, the successor body of the League of Nation, the UN, called for an immediate, durable and sustained humanitarian truce in Gaza leading to a cessation of hostilities. It stated that all parties should immediately and fully comply with obligations under international humanitarian and human rights laws, particularly in relation to the protection of civilians. […]

I believe that we in Wales today should align ourselves with that UN resolution. An immediate ceasefire will save hundreds, if not thousands, of innocent lives.

The former Deputy Minister for Social Partnership, Hannah Blythyn MS, leads a debate on Motion NNDM8394 recognising the Remembrance period in Wales. The former Deputy Minister lists ongoing conflicts around the world, including in Ukraine, Israel and Gaza.

A Plaid Cymru debate, tabled by Rhun ap Iorwerth MS, calling for a ceasefire receives the support of 24 Members, with 19 against and 13 abstentions. The full vote results and transcript of the debate are available.

NDM8391 Conflict in Israel and Gaza reads as follows:

The former Minister for Social Justice, Jane Hutt MS, sets out the Welsh Government’s position in response:

We are clear about the horror of this humanitarian disaster, but I believe that we're also clear about the urgent need to ensure that aid can reach the people who desperately need it, including the restoration of electricity, fuel, food and water to Gaza.

And that's why the First Minister has joined with calls for an immediate humanitarian pause as the quickest and most effective way to allow this to happen, but also, crucially, as the most realistic route and platform for reaching a full ceasefire as soon as possible.

We are clear that finding a way to end the violence, suffering and death is absolutely essential and it must remain the focus, above all else, to find that pathway to peace. As many have said in this debate, the international community must commit itself to achieving the clear end goal—a lasting peace for all in the middle east. And we believe that this can only be achieved through political agreement based on a two-state solution, where people in Israel live in security and the Palestinian people realise the independent statehood to which they have long aspired. And the Welsh Government shares in this commitment to achieving this lasting peace.

We also endorse […] the widespread calls for international law to be respected by everyone in order to give every possible protection to civilian lives and facilities. Human rights, international law, the rule of law and the illegality of war crimes are universal and they apply to us all. No Government, no individual, no organisation is exempt or above the law, and, of course, everyone should be accountable for their actions.

On 13 November, the Legislation, Justice and Constitution Committee considers amendments to the Allocation of Housing and Homelessness (Eligibility) (Wales) (Amendment) (No. 3) Regulations 2023. The Committee agrees to the Welsh Government’s request to expedite scrutiny of the regulations due to their urgency.

This follows the UK Government extending eligibility for social housing and housing assistance to

• British nationals;
• others not subject to immigration control or treated as such; and
• anyone with immigration leave and recourse to public funds

who were residing in Israel, the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, east Jerusalem, the Golan Heights or Lebanon immediately before 7 October 2023 and who left those areas in connection with the violence unfolding in the region.

The changes are agreed in Plenary on 14 November 2023, aligning Welsh housing law with the UK Government’s approach. The former Minister for Climate Change and Housing, Julie James MS, says that:

The Welsh Government welcomes this decision and, as a nation of sanctuary, we need to act now to ensure we reflect that position fully in Wales. […] As you will be aware, people are fleeing a difficult and distressing situation, and any support we can offer to those in need should be given.

In response to an oral question from Sioned Williams MS on discussions between the UK and Welsh governments on refugee resettlement schemes for those fleeing the conflict, the former Minister for Social Justice, Jane Hutt MS, says:

It is very important that we continue […] to do what we can, not just in terms of community cohesion […] but also that we look at what we can do as a nation of sanctuary. […] We're in regular contact with the UK Government to look at the situation and also we recognise that there haven't been any announcements by the UK Government on any resettlement packages for those from Gaza and Israel wishing to seek sanctuary in Wales.

In evidence to the Equality and Social Justice Committee’s inquiry on the Anti-racist Wales Action Plan, Professor Uzo Iwobi of Race Council Cymru reports that:

there's been a significant increase in antisemitic attacks and verbal attacks and assaults on Jews and Muslims because of what is going on in Israel and Palestine at this time. We've been touching base with the leaders of the Jewish communities who are part of the race council's wider network and the Muslim Council of Wales, who've been reporting increasing concerns about the lives of Muslims.

Jane Dodds MS later raises this with the former Minister for Social Justice, Jane Hutt MS, when she gives evidence to the inquiry on 4 December 2023. In response, she says:

I met with all the groups who sit on that faith communities forum. I've met with the Muslim Council of Wales, who are very active in the faith communities forum, and Jewish representatives, attending Friday prayers in the mosque and going to Shabbat in the synagogue in Cardiff, and an interfaith event—constant dialogue, constant engagement.

The former Minister adds that the Welsh Government has community coordinators in every part of Wales.

The former First Minister, Mark Drakeford MS, attends the 40^th meeting of the British-Irish Council. On 15 December 2023, he informs the Senedd of the meeting in a written statement and letter to the Legislation, Justice and Constitution Committee. Both confirm that the “conflict in Israel and Gaza” was discussed, although this information wasn’t included in the meeting’s joint communiqué on 28 November 2023.

In response to an oral question from Peredur Owen Griffiths MS on discussions between the UK and Welsh governments on refugee resettlement schemes for those fleeing the conflict, the former Minister for Social Justice, Jane Hutt, describes an intergovernmental meeting on refugee policy with UK and Scottish ministers. She explains that:

We were covering a whole range of issues in relation to refugees—Ukrainian, Afghan refugees, wider asylum dispersal—but also this question was raised. It was raised in terms of could there be another route or way in which we could support those caught up in the conflict.

Of course, obviously, this is not devolved—any matter relating to foreign policy is for the UK Government, not the Welsh Government or the Senedd. And, of course, there is a priority to get much greater aid into Gaza.

The discussion we had related to supporting British nationals to see if there were any routes to that, because it is important that they know what their rights are and their entitlements. But we want to see a pause to this conflict, we clearly do, and that's what's going to stop these terrible situations that you've described today.

The Petitions Committee considers petition P-06-1387, 'Provide humanitarian aid to Gaza' and correspondence from the former Minister for Social Justice, Jane Hutt MS. In her letter, the former Minister says that:

there must be a renewed sense of urgency among the international community to deliver a full and permanent ceasefire, to end the intolerable levels of violence and human suffering as soon as possible.

This appears to mark a change in the position of the Welsh Government – from support for a “humanitarian pause” to support for a “full and permanent ceasefire”.

The Committee considers the petition and agrees to write back to the former Minister to confirm whether, in the event the Disaster Emergency Committee (DEC) does launch an appeal, the Welsh Government would consider providing humanitarian aid. Members also encourage the former Minister to meet with the humanitarian charities involved in the DEC appeal in Wales. The Minister’s response is considered at the Committee’s meeting on 22 April 2024 (see below).

At the time of publication, the petition had collected 1,795 signatures. A published research brief provides background to the issues.

During a debate marking Holocaust Memorial Day, Sioned Williams MS asks several questions relating to the conflict, including on the International Court of Justice’s interim ruling and UK support for a ceasefire.

The former Minister for Social Justice, Jane Hutt MS, responds:

[I]in terms of the situation in the Middle East, we need a sustainable and lasting ceasefire in order to ensure that we get urgent humanitarian relief, warding off famine, and also freeing hostages, and provide the space for a sustainable ceasefire so that fighting doesn't restart. And, obviously, we acknowledge and look at the situation in terms of the international court of justice's interim ruling.

But I think, just in terms of our role and the points that we make, we have to be responsible, as I said, for community cohesion, for the compassionate and caring and ethically-informed Wales that we want to see in our young people and indeed in all our citizens.

Rhys ab Owen MS tables OPIN-2024-0386 Medical Workers in Gaza which is co-submitted by Jack Sargeant MS. At the time of publishing, 12 Members had signed the statement (including submitters). It reads:

During a debate marking the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Nation of Sanctuary update, Sioned Williams MS asks the former Minister for Social Justice, Jane Hutt MS, about refugee resettlement, Nation of Sanctuary and the pause in UK support for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The former Minister responds that:

[Y]ou have obviously reflected on wider issues of world conflict, which are important to us in terms of our international relations and understanding and our global responsibilities and citizenship. […] The fact is, it's a humanitarian crisis that we see in Gaza. Too many civilians, including women and children, losing their lives. And we must get greater aid into Gaza—and, most importantly, the safe return of hostages and supporting British nationals. So, I mean, this is something, where—. Again, this links us not just to the nation of sanctuary, but to community cohesion, and we have stood with and met with Jewish and Muslim communities since the conflict began, and we continue to speak with Muslim and Jewish communities to see what assistance that we can provide.

Sioned Williams MS leads a short debate marking the importance of Wales’s voice in the campaign for peace - Celebrating the hundredth anniversary of presenting the peace petition by the Women of Wales to President Coolidge and Wales's role in speaking up for peace today.

Sioned Williams MS, Carolyn Thomas MS and Mabon ap Gwynfor MS reference Gaza during the debate.

The Bill’s purpose is:

to make provision to prevent public bodies from being influenced by political or moral disapproval of foreign states when taking certain economic decisions, subject to certain exceptions; and for connected purposes.

Clause 3(7) of the Bill would protect Israel, Israeli occupied Palestinian territories and the occupied Golan Heights, from investment and procurement boycotts by Welsh local authorities, universities and other public bodies. The Welsh Government and Senedd Legal Services agree that Senedd consent is required for clause 3(7), but the UK Government disagrees.

The Welsh Government laid its Legislative Consent Memorandum on 8 September 2023. The Legislation, Justice and Constitution Committee’s report, laid on 22 November, echoes the concerns of the Welsh Government regarding the Bill’s compatibility with the European Convention on Human Rights and international law.

The Senedd withholds consent to the Bill on 27 February 2024.

During the debate, former Minister for Finance and Local Government, Rebecca Evans MS, states that the Bill:

Present[s] a threat to freedom of expression and the ability of public bodies and democratic institutions to spend, invest and trade ethically, in line with international law and human rights. I ask Members to withhold consent to the Bill.

In response to an oral question from Altaf Hussein MS on work with community and faith leaders to promote and protect community cohesion, the former Minister for Social Justice, Jane Hutt MS, says:

I as Minister for Social Justice, and the finance Minister, the education Minister, we are meeting with our communities who are most affected by the events in the Middle East. Of course, we are meeting with our Muslim communities, meeting with our Jewish communities—meeting with them and also visiting their places of worship, and understanding what this has meant for them, but also recognising what it has meant for them in terms of the impact that it has on their lives and globally as well.

In response to further exchanges on racism, Islamophobia and extremism, the former Minister adds:

Let me make it very clear that the Welsh Government speaks out and stands out against Islamophobia and antisemitism.

On 6 March, Peredur Owen Griffiths MS’ oral question OQ60793 was not reached in Plenary. It asks:

The former Minister for Social Justice, Jane Hutt MS, responds in writing on 7 March 2024:

Wales is committed to being a nation of sanctuary. We have successfully welcomed people seeking sanctuary from across the globe. If a Gaza resettlement scheme was developed, we would ensure Wales played a full part, but the UK Government has no plans for such a scheme.

The former Minister for Social Justice, Jane Hutt MS, responds to the following written questions:

1. On 5 March 2024, Heledd Fychan MS, tabled WQ91723:

Response:

The Welsh Government remains deeply concerned about the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Too many civilians – including many women and children – are being killed and an acute humanitarian crisis is unfolding.

We have successfully welcomed people seeking sanctuary from across the globe, including Palestinians who have become contributing members of Welsh society. As a Nation of Sanctuary, we would ensure Wales plays a full part in any Gaza resettlement scheme.

I have asked UK Government Ministers on several occasions since October whether there will be a resettlement scheme. Most recently I asked this in a meeting alongside Scottish Government Ministers on 11 December.

The Welsh Government is in regular contact with UK Government to understand the situation but the UK Government has not made any commitment to a resettlement scheme for those from Israel-Gaza wishing to seek sanctuary.

We want to be proactive in supporting safe and legal routes for those who need our support but we can only do so within the parameters set by UK Government immigration routes.

2. On 5 March 2024, Heledd Fychan MS, tables WQ91724

Response:

The Welsh Government remains deeply concerned about the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Too many civilians – including many women and children – are being killed and an acute humanitarian crisis is unfolding.

We have successfully welcomed people seeking sanctuary from across the globe, including Palestinians who have become contributing members of Welsh society. As a Nation of Sanctuary, we would ensure Wales plays a full part in any Gaza resettlement scheme.

I have asked UK Government Ministers on several occasions since October whether there will be a resettlement scheme. Most recently I asked this in a meeting alongside Scottish Government Ministers on 11 December.

The Welsh Government is in regular contact with UK Government to understand the situation but the UK Government has not made any commitment to a resettlement scheme for those from Israel-Gaza wishing to seek sanctuary.

We want to be proactive in supporting safe and legal routes for those who need our support but we can only do so within the parameters set by UK Government immigration routes.

3. On 5 March 2024, Sam Kurtz MS tables WQ91728

Response:

We are committed to embedding anti-racism within everything we do and have set out our ambitions in the Anti-racist Wales Action Plan.

The First Minister and I along with other Cabinet colleagues have met with leaders and members of the Jewish community multiple times since the start of the conflict on 7th October to offer our condolences to all affected by the current crisis and to hear from them about the impacts the current situation is having on our communities. We will continue to do so.

Following discussions with both Jewish and Muslim faith leaders, in December 2023, I along with the Minister for Education and Welsh Language wrote to schools to highlight the statutory anti-bullying guidance 'Rights, Respect, Equality' for education settings and governing bodies to tackle prejudice-related bullying and harassment, including tackling Islamophobia and antisemitism. We also highlighted the availability of professional learning resources to support senior leaders, teachers and education practitioners in undertaking a dialogue around the conflict appropriately and tackling all forms of racism.

The Minister for Education and Welsh Language also wrote to colleges and universities regarding this issue.

Through our anti-hate crime campaign Hate Hurts Wales, we are raising awareness of religious hate, encouraging the reporting of it, and highlighting the supporting available via the Wales Hate Support Centre. We continue to fund the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust to deliver its important engagement work in Wales and raise the dangers of antisemitism and other forms of identity-based hate.

Through the Wales Faith Communities Form, co-chaired by the First Minister and myself, we work closely with faith representatives on matters affecting the social, economic and cultural life of Wales.

During a debate marking International Women’s Day, Sioned Williams MS, asks:

The discourse of women's rights cannot be apart from the fact of the military violence in Gaza. I am in this place because my rights as a woman were hard won. It is my duty as a woman in this place to raise my voice against that violence. We must do more to support our sisters in Gaza, and use our voice as a nation to condemn this horrific war. Are you prepared, Minister, to add the Welsh Government's voice to the international calls for an immediate ceasefire and an end to the mass suffering of Palestinian women and girls?

The former Deputy Minister, Hannah Blythyn MS, responds:

I thank Sioned Williams for her contribution. I know there's always much we have in common, even if it's just the things that make us equally angry and determined to achieve change.

[…] People fought hard for us to be here, and we definitely don't take that for granted, and we will fight hard for others, whether that is some of the horrific things we are seeing in Gaza at the moment, but also here at home in terms of making sure the next generation has a better future than us.

During First Minister’s Questions, Mabon ap Gwynfor MS asks OQ60884:

The former First Minister, Mark Drakeford MS, answers:

where the Welsh Government helps to provide emergency relief, we do so through the work of the Disasters Emergency Committee. Should the committee launch an appeal for assistance for Gaza, I would expect a future Welsh Government to participate in it.

[…]

We come to the end with a very important question for people across the world, and for also the people of Wales with family members in Gaza and who are concerned every day about the events going on there. Of course, we want to see a ceasefire, in terms of everything that's going on there.

And that's the reason, as Mabon ap Gwynfor said, why the committee can't be there on the land, and without being on the land, we can't provide that assistance that is most needed by the people there. So, we are looking forward as a Government—. As we've contributed to an appeal when it started in the context of Ukraine, or Afghanistan, or Turkey, or Pakistan, we have provided money from the people of Wales to help people on the ground. We are looking forward to doing the same thing in Gaza, and to do so as quickly as possible.

In Plenary, Mabon ap Gwynfor MS asks the former Minister for Social Justice, Jane Hutt MS, about Wales’s role in arming the Israeli Government and the Israel Defence Force (IDF). She responds:

Thank you for raising this important issue. […] Certainly, this is something where, in terms of our powers and responsibilities, we have no role in terms of defence and the sale of arms, but certainly I will be sharing this question with the Cabinet Secretary for Economy in terms of Wales and where we sit in that situation in terms of that question.

The Petitions Committee considers the former Minister for Social Justice, Jane Hutt MS’s, response on Welsh Government donations to a future DEC appeal. She confirms:

The Welsh Government has made donations to a number of DEC appeals in recent years and will certainly consider doing so again for any future appeals including an appeal for Gaza should one be launched. I am regularly updated on the activities and positions of the DEC by my officials. I would be pleased to meet with you to discuss this further.

The Committee notes the Minister’s response and agrees to keep the petition open until there’s a DEC appeal in place.

The new First Minister, Vaughan Gething MS, sets out his position in Plenary:

It's been the position of the Welsh Government for some time that there should be an immediate ceasefire. There needs to be a significant increase in routes for aid, as well as the amount of aid provided, because there is a very real humanitarian crisis taking place before us, in addition to resolving the issues around the atrocities that did take place on 7 October, which includes the release of all the hostages. Now, I don't think that, across this Chamber, people will disagree with that position. Our challenge is the level of influence we have on decision makers within the region, the talks that are taking place between different actors to try to generate a ceasefire, and the ability to stop the killing.

And, in closing:

[T]he Welsh Government is clear: we want to see an immediate end to the killing, a ceasefire; we want to see an immediate significant increase in the aid that can be provided; we want to see hostages returned. It remains my view that the long-term way to guarantee the stability and peaceful security that citizens should expect is for there to be a viable, secure Israel, as a neighbour to a viable and secure Palestinian state. We are a long way off from that being delivered in reality.

The Chair of the Culture, Communications, Welsh Language, Sport and International Relations Committee, Delyth Jewell MS, writes to the Petitions Committee asking to be kept informed of:

• discussions that have taken place with humanitarian charities involved in the DEC appeal in Wales; and
• any further action the Welsh Government may consider taking to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Peredur Owen Griffiths MS leads a debate on Wales’s response to the conflict. Rhun ap Iorwerth MS, John Griffiths MS, Sioned Williams MS, Jenny Rathbone MS, and Mabon ap Gwynfor MS also contribute.

The new Cabinet Secretary for Culture and Social Justice, Lesley Griffiths MS, responds to the conflict’s key elements, detailed below.

On the Senedd’s ceasefire vote of 8 November 2023:

In keeping with convention […] Welsh Ministers abstained from the vote on that motion as matters of foreign policy are not devolved to Senedd Cymru. However, in the debate itself my predecessor, the Minister for Social Justice, was clear the Welsh Government wanted to see a full ceasefire as soon as possible. This position has been repeated in Plenary by both the First Minister and the former First Minister […].

On the Welsh Government’s latest position:

There must be a renewed sense of urgency amongst the international community to deliver a full and permanent ceasefire, ending the suffering on all sides as quickly as possible. As the First Minister said last week, there is a very real humanitarian crisis taking place. We sincerely hope all relevant partners ensure a significant and immediate increase in aid entering Gaza, agree to release all of the hostages, end the violence, and meaningfully engage in the development of a lasting two-state solution.

In closing, she adds:

We call again for a ceasefire, for an increase in aid, and for the hostages to be released.

On the scope of the Welsh Government’s role:

In Wales the challenge for us is identifying the influence we can have to help bring about the changes we all want to see, to stop the hatred and its consequences. The history and geopolitics of the region, as well as the continuing violence and the fact that foreign policy is not devolved, severely limits the scope of what we can do, despite our deep sorrow. […] Nevertheless, there are things we can and we are doing in Wales to support the communities living here who are affected.

On community cohesion:

We have been monitoring any community tensions relating to this conflict via our community cohesion programme, and monitoring any spikes in hate incidents via our Wales hate support centre. Although there have been some hateful incidents, thankfully these have been isolated, and we have not seen the spikes we feared.

Ministers have met with Jewish and Muslim leaders to discuss the impacts of the conflict in Israel and Gaza on our communities here in Wales. We've encouraged inter-cultural solidarity and dialogue in partnership with our faith communities forum. To address any issues in schools, we were able to co-author a letter for schools, colleges and universities in Wales with the Muslim Council of Wales and the Board of Deputies of British Jews.[…]

Prejudice and hate have no place in Wales. We expect allegations and incidents of racism and racial harassment to be fully investigated, with appropriate action taken to address the matter and prevent further incidents from happening.

On providing humanitarian aid:

The Welsh Government has made donations to a number of Disasters Emergency Committee appeals in recent years […] We have not been able to do this to alleviate some of the suffering in Gaza, because DEC has been unable to launch a campaign. At this time, DEC believes only a lasting ceasefire will enable its agencies the opportunity to effectively provide much-needed aid in Gaza. We continue to see proposals to increase maritime delivery and air drops for aid, which we hope will increase more effective aid. We will keep our position under review should DEC feel the criteria for an appeal can be met.

On working with the UK Government:

The Welsh Government is keeping in regular contact with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office to understand UK efforts in relation to the conflict, and to understand any perceived impacts for Wales.

The First Minister committed to working with Members who may have constituents with family members who were victims on 7 October, or who are being held as hostages, to understand if further support is needed.

On refugees:

Since 7 October, Welsh Ministers have asked UK Government Ministers about opportunities for resettlement from Gaza for those most in need. It appears to us there continues to be no current prospect of a Gaza resettlement scheme for the UK. […] [A]s a nation that aspires to be a nation of sanctuary, we would also aim to play a full part in any Gaza resettlement scheme if one was established.

We've been following the campaign for a Gaza family reunion scheme with keen interest. The Welsh Government already funds the British Red Cross to support family reunion, helping those with refugee status to bring their family members to Wales via a safe and legal route established by the UK Government. However, referrals to the project from Gaza are complicated by the barriers to exit Gaza. The painful history of the region affects the willingness of Palestinians to leave, and the willingness of neighbouring countries to permit entry. There is a clear concern that Palestinians may never be able to return if they leave now.

We have not called specifically for a Gaza family reunion scheme. Instead, we have called for a more progressive version of the UK family reunion scheme, which builds upon some of the successes of the now closed Ukraine family scheme. The Ukraine scheme supported 57,000 arrivals in a very short period, largely because the definition of 'family' was broad and application processing was quick. This same approach for Palestinians and others could have a very beneficial impact for the well-being and security of many families.

Family reunion is vital for any sanctuary seeker living in Wales, regardless of where in the world their separated family member is living. Our approach is to advocate for a family scheme that could support Palestinians or any other person who has found sanctuary here in Wales. And we will continue to call for this.

John Griffiths MS tables OPIN-2024-0410 76 years on - Remembering the Nakba “The Ongoing Catastrophe", which is co-submitted by Peredur Owen Griffiths MS. At the time of publishing, 12 Members had signed the statement (including submitters). It reads:

Peredur Owen Griffiths MS tables OPIN-2024-0387 Recognising the State of Palestine, which is co-submitted by John Griffiths MS, Darren Millar MS and Jane Dodds MS. At the time of publishing, 23 Members had signed the statement (including submitters). It reads:

In Plenary, Mabon ap Gwynfor MS asks the Senedd Commission to look into Senedd pension scheme investments in arms companies and, where appropriate, to put pressure on pension investors to divest. He says:

There is great concern at the moment that the Commission pension pot, and things relating to Commission pensions, could be used to fund arms companies, and those weapons, in turn, being sold to the Israeli Government, who would then use those weapons to attack hospitals, charities, schools and so on in Gaza

Responding as Senedd Commissioner, Hefin David MS, explains the Senedd’s three pension schemes and their investments:

1. On the Members’ pension scheme: the Commission “has no means to influence the allocation of […] assets”. Hefin David MS explains that “the power to invest the scheme’s assets sits entirely with the pension board, which is independent of the Commission”. He adds that, as members of the pension board, he and Mike Hedges MS, would be happy to meet with Mabon ap Gwynfor MS to discuss the issue and raise it at the board’s next meeting.
2. The Members’ support staff pension scheme is run by Aviva and so the Commission is not involved in deciding how the assets are invested. Hefin David MS recommends Mabon Gwynfor MS raise his concerns directly with Aviva.
3. The civil service pension scheme, which is available to Commission staff, is an unfunded scheme and therefore has no assets to invest.

Peredur Owen Griffiths MS asks what can be done to divest from Israeli companies in general. He says:

I want to know what the Senedd can do to do its part in bringing about the end of this horrific conflict and play its part in bringing about peace, humanity and a future for Palestine, through its pension schemes, but also through its procurement processes.

Hefin David MS explains how the pension board reviews the environmental, social and governance credentials of its managers annually, and questions its advisors on the managers' approach at each pension board meeting. He agrees to raise the matters at its next meeting.

The First Minister speaks of the conflict at his annual evidence session on international relations with the Culture, Communications, Welsh Language, Sport and International Relations (CCWLSIR) Committee.

Jenny Rathbone MS asks the First Minister:

• to confirm that the Welsh Government is minded to give a substantial contribution to a Disaster Emergency Committee (DEC) appeal, if one is launched; and
• if consideration has been given to benefits in kind that could be contributed, such as construction expertise, particularly given a reduced international relations budget for 2024-25.

The First Minister responds:

Well, I think you're right on both points, Jenny, that is that if the Disasters Emergency Committee launch an appeal, then we would expect to contribute.

I'd have to be clear about needing to understand our budget position at the time in terms of what we could deliver. But there's more than cash and some of that will depend on what reconstruction and support looks like as well, and which partners you get to work with to do that. But in a range of areas, we've provided benefits in kind that aren't always about money—sometimes it's about equipment, sometimes it's about expertise.

So, I'd want to look at what we can do in a positive way. And this all comes back to when there is a period in time when we're able to do that, because at the moment, there isn't a permanent or sustainable ceasefire.

We know the issues about not getting enough aid in to the humanitarian crisis that unfolds before us. And we know that there are people who are still hostages. So, all of those things are very real challenges and we see them in lots of constituencies and regions across Wales where people have direct family, community and friendship links, so I look forward to having the opportunity to help in reconstruction and support.

Heledd Fychan MS asks whether the 17.6% cut to the Welsh Government’s international development budget will impact its ability to donate to a DEC appeal. The First Minister responds that any budget reductions:

would affect our ability to provide money to this or any other DEC appeal. […] We don't know when an appeal might be launched. So, the honest truth is it will affect our ability, but I couldn't tell you how much or when, and that's because we don't yet know when a DEC appeal will be launched as well. That is part of the wider reality of our budgetary position.

He says that he has not had detailed conversations about contributions from Wales but that the Welsh Government has engaged with representatives of the Palestinian Authority and will engage with people from the Israeli Government in the UK as well.

Jenny Rathbone MS asks if there’s a role for the Welsh Government’s overseas offices in Dubai and Doha, to which the First Minister responds:

I think needing to have an international coalition of goodwill is really important for the future, and it's also about how those relationships take place in a way that is respectful, rather than countries not from the region trying to take a leadership role in a way that may not be well received. So, I think we've got to have some sensitivity on all sides, and, actually, Dubai and Doha have been centres of actually trying to get people into conversations to mediate.

Now, they of course have capital, but you've got to have the ability to invest that capital in a way in which the authorities running the territory want that to be done. Now, you have a challenge over who is actually in charge, the nature of the authority that exists, and that still comes back to what a peace will look like. So, we need to get to that point.

But that's why the aid is the first thing, because you need to make sure that people are able to get through the humanitarian crisis that is unfolding, and then to get to what the long-term goal is—and I wish it was not quite so long-term—but to get to the point where there really are two safe, sovereign states living alongside each other.

Now, that's been the position of parties—plural—across the UK. It's the position of the Welsh Government and the UK Government, and I don't see that position changing with the general election.

It's how we're going to be on the side of bringing people to that answer sooner rather than later, and recognising that we, as we sit down today, are not in control of what is happening in Gaza and we have limited influence over the Government of Israel.

Luke Fletcher MS asks how information is passed to the Welsh Government by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office in relation to international disasters and affected individuals, and queries whether the Welsh Government could pass that information on to relevant Senedd Members so “we can all provide wrap around support”. The First Minister responds that the relationship is led by the UK Government, and describes how MPs, devolved agencies, local government and the third sector are often involved. He says:

[W]ith the Foreign Office, there is some sharing of information, so there are times when we find out and are told if there are Welsh citizens who are engaged and involved.

The challenge, I think, always is: where does the awareness come from and then how do we something that is genuinely helpful for that person and their family? And that won't always be perfect, because the relationship will be different in different circumstances for the family and how they feel about communities, and who they'll want to have the conversation with as well. So, this isn't saying, 'The Senedd must always be engaged and involved', because that might not be what that person wants.

But where, actually, there is a role for us to play, we should be willing and want to do that and want be part of the conversation, and that's the way that I want to see relationships between the Welsh Government and the Foreign Office and other agencies work. Because the longer term support will undoubtedly engage our responsibilities as well.