The Prime Minister (PM) of the United Kingdom (UK), Keir Starmer, has called on the Israeli government to reconsider its decision to intensify military operations in Gaza, warning that the move will only deepen the humanitarian crisis and lead to further loss of life.
Starmer made the call in a statement shared via his official X account on Friday.
The PM’s statement sets a clear diplomatic tone, showing the UK’s disapproval of Israel’s latest military escalation.
Starmer argued that heightened military action is counterproductive, declaring that it won’t resolve the conflict or aid hostage negotiations, but will worsen violence.
This, he said, also signals the UK’s position as advocating restraint over aggression.
‘The Israeli Government’s decision to further escalate its offensive in Gaza is wrong, and we urge it to reconsider immediately. This action will do nothing to bring an end to this conflict or to help secure the release of the hostages. It will only bring more bloodshed’, Starmer’s statement partly read.
Starmer drew attention to the dire humanitarian reality in Gaza. He lamented the worsening living conditions and the plight of hostages.
He called for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid, which reflects a push for immediate relief measures. He insisted that Hamas must ‘leave and disarm’, which shows the UK’s stance that any future governance of Gaza must exclude the militant group.
‘Every day, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens, and hostages taken by Hamas are being held in appalling and inhuman conditions. What we need is a ceasefire, a surge in humanitarian aid, the release of all hostages by Hamas and a negotiated solution. Hamas can play no part in the future of Gaza and must leave as well as disarm’, he added.
He projected the UK’s broader diplomatic strategy. By invoking the two-state solution, Starmer reaffirms the UK’s long-standing support for an internationally recognised path to peace. He emphasised the need to work with allies, explaining that it shows that Britain’s approach is part of a coordinated international effort, not a solo diplomatic push.
Starmer warned that peace is gradually slipping away due to a lack of mutual trust and genuine dialogue. He emphasised the urgency of negotiations and the need for both sides — not just one — to choose diplomacy over violence.
‘Together with our allies, we are working on a long-term plan to secure peace in the region as part of a two-state solution, and ultimately achieve a brighter future for Palestinians and Israelis’.
‘But without both sides engaging in good faith in negotiations, that prospect is vanishing before our eyes. Our message is clear: a diplomatic solution is possible, but both parties must step away from the path of destruction’, Starmer’s statement concluded.
