The UK reaffirms its support for Israel’s security, as stated by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, half a year after the onset of the conflict between Israel and Gaza.
However, the Prime Minister expressed the country’s horror at the loss of three British humanitarian workers due to an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) operation this week.
He reiterated the need for a “humanitarian pause” to enhance aid delivery to Gaza.
In a separate development, the UK has decided to dispatch a Royal Navy vessel to assist with aid distribution in the area.
The Foreign Office has committed £9.7 million to support the creation of a maritime aid route from Cyprus to Gaza, providing aid, materials, and expertise for the international initiative.
Concurrently, Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron cautioned that the UK’s endorsement of Israel’s right to self-defense is “not without conditions”.
In his Sunday Times article, he emphasized the expectation that a nation as proud and democratic as Israel should adhere to international humanitarian law, even under such trying circumstances.
His remarks follow the unfortunate event nearly a week ago when seven aid workers perished in an Israeli assault in Gaza, which he labeled as “tragic and preventable”.
This Sunday is the six-month mark since Hamas militants launched an assault in southern Israel on October 7, resulting in approximately 1,200 fatalities and the capture of 253 individuals.
Currently, 129 captives are still missing, with at least 34 presumed deceased.
Since the conflict’s start, Gaza has seen 33,137 deaths and over 75,815 injuries, according to figures from the Hamas-led health department.
“Half a year on, the wounds of Israel remain open,” Mr. Sunak remarked. “Grieving families and hostages still in Hamas’ grasp.
“The civilian toll in Gaza after half a year of conflict continues to escalate – marked by starvation, despair, and a staggering loss of life.”
He mentioned that the UK is making every effort to deliver aid to Gaza, insisting that it “needs to be inundated” with assistance. He also renewed the call for an immediate humanitarian halt, aiming for a “lasting and stable ceasefire”.
“We stand firm in our support for Israel’s right to counter Hamas’ threats and safeguard its security,” Mr. Sunak declared.
“Yet, the entire UK is stunned by the carnage and mourns the deaths of courageous British heroes who were delivering sustenance to those in dire need.”