Like many, the UK is concerned about the challenges facing human rights defenders (HRDs) and organisations operating in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs). In addition, I can assure you that reports of ill-treatment of those in Israeli military detention are not something the UK takes lightly. In terms of prosecution, it is crucial that there is adequate legal due process to make sure that people's rights can be fairly heard.
The UK has also been clear that it has been concerned about Israel’s extensive use of administrative detention which, according to international law, should be used only when security makes this absolutely necessary rather than as routine practice and as a preventive rather than a punitive measure. Detainees should either be charged or released. I understand that the Government continues to raise these issues with the Israeli authorities at every opportunity.
Likewise, UK officials have, in no uncertain terms, highlighted their concerns over the continued transfer of Palestinian detainees to prisons inside Israel in violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention. The UK Government will continue to call on the Israeli authorities to comply with their obligations under international law. I was encouraged to learn that the UK has funded projects providing legal aid to those, especially minors, detained and prosecuted in this manner and capacity building to local lawyers.
It is for reasons such as the above that Israel and the OPTs remain a human rights priority for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. The UK Government has committed to working with Israel to secure improvements to the practices surrounding children in detention in Israel, and I will be sure to follow progress on this matter closely.