British Prime Minster Rishi Sunak responds to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying that “we absolutely support Israel to defend itself in line with international law, to go after Hamas, to take back hostages, to deter further incursions, and to strengthen your security for the long term.”
He does not mention toppling Hamas, which Israeli leaders have said is a key war aim.
“I know you are taking every precaution to avoid harming civilians, in direct contrast to the terrorists of Hamas, which seek to put civilians in harm’s way,’ he continues.
“We also recognize that the Palestinian people are victims of Hamas too,” says Sunak, adding that he welcomes Israel’s decision to allow humanitarian routes into Gaza.
“I am proud to stand here with you in Israel’s darkest hour as your friend. We will stand with you in solidarity, we will stand with your people, and we also want you to win,” Sunak concludes.
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From the Liveblog of
Thursday, October 19, 2023
