I am proud of the role this country played in the creation of the state of Israel and I believe it is vital to remind ourselves of the context in which the declaration was written. The Jewish people had suffered centuries of persecution and founding a homeland in a place of historical and religious importance to their faith was the right and moral thing to do.
I think it is correct that we mark the centenary with pride. However, the Government understands the sensitivities which exist.
We continue to fully support a two-state solution with a state of Israel, as the Jewish homeland, and a viable and sovereign Palestinian state. The Foreign Secretary, Boris Johnson, reiterated this position when he visited Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories in March. I would like to assure you that it has long been our position that Israeli settlement activity is illegal under international law. Settlement activity by Israel undermines the viability of the principle of two states for two peoples.
Nevertheless, Israel today is a symbol of openness and a thriving democracy. I look forward to the future where I hope UK – Israel cooperation continues to grow in a wide range of areas, including trade and investment, innovation and technology and defence and security.