UK, France and Germany demand ‘end’ to war in Gaza and aid to be allowed in immediately
UK, France and Germany tell Israel to lift restrictions on aid in Gaza
- Britain, France, and Germany have jointly demanded that Israel immediately lift restrictions on the flow of aid into Gaza to alleviate the severe hunger crisis.
- Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has resisted calls for immediate recognition of a Palestinian state, asserting it must be a step within a broader pathway to peace and a two-state solution.
- This position follows France's decision to recognise Palestine and comes amid pressure from 221 cross-party MPs and divisions within Sir Keir's own cabinet.
- Sir Keir described the situation in Gaza as 'appalling' and 'unrelenting,' condemning Israel's 'disproportionate military escalation' and the denial of humanitarian aid as 'indefensible'.
- Separately, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel is considering 'alternative options' to ceasefire talks with Hamas, blaming the group for obstructing a hostage release deal.