The UK government has committed £3 million for co-existence projects between Israelis and Palestinians. Both Labour and Conservative Friends of Israel groups have applauded the decision.
The money will be spread over three years and follows campaigning by pro-Israel MPs.
Previously the budget for this project had been £150,000 in 2015/2016 and was scrapped in the 2016/2017 budget.
“LFI is delighted that the Government appears to have listened to our calls on this important issue,” said MP Joan Ryan, chair of Labour Friends of Israel.
“It is based on the premise that bringing Israelis and Palestinians together will promote reconciliation, trust and understanding between the two peoples which is vital in underpinning any successful peace process.”
Conservative Friends of Israel welcomed the “unprecedented” announcement, with honourary president Lord Polak saying coexistence projects “facilitate positive interaction between Israelis and Palestinians and ultimately form the foundation of a lasting two-state solution”.
He added: “We are delighted that [DfID] has secured this unprecedented funding, which together with the redirection of Palestinian Authority aid to health and education will ensure taxpayers value for money while directly supporting conflict resolution.”
