I know that this is an unimaginably difficult time for people in Israel and Gaza and I can assure you that I want to see an end to violence in the region.
The loss of every innocent life is a tragedy, and while acknowledging that Hamas has enmeshed itself amidst the civilian population of Gaza, the UK Government has called on and will continue to call on Israel to take every possible precaution to avoid harming civilians.
I welcome the extensive diplomatic efforts the UK is making to ensure humanitarian support reaches those who need it. The Prime Minister has raised humanitarian support during his meetings with the leaders of Israel, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the Palestinian Authority. The Foreign Secretary also recently visited the region, and spoke to counterparts in Egypt, Turkey and Qatar to work with them to push for agreement on ongoing humanitarian access to Gaza.
I strongly believe that divisions in other parts of the world should not be allowed to damage our communities here in the UK, and condemn the antisemitic language that has been used in some demonstrations. Any discrimination or intimidation based on religion or race is deplorable and must not be tolerated.
