Starmer Calls for Immediate Ceasefire in Israel's Conflict with Hamas

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged Israeli President Isaac Herzog for immediate steps toward a ceasefire in Israel's conflict with Hamas. During a meeting in Paris, Starmer emphasized the need for a ceasefire to release hostages and increase humanitarian aid. He reiterated his support for Israel's right to self-defense, mourning the recent deaths of hostages.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged Israeli President Isaac Herzog to take 'immediate steps' towards a ceasefire in Israel's ongoing conflict with Hamas militants in Gaza.

'The Prime Minister said there must be immediate steps towards a ceasefire, so that hostages can be released and more humanitarian aid can get in for those in desperate need,' announced a statement from Starmer's office on Sunday. 'The Prime Minister reiterated his ongoing support for Israel's right to self-defence in accordance with international law.'

Starmer and Herzog met in Paris on the sidelines of the Olympics. On July 7, shortly after taking office, Starmer highlighted the 'clear and urgent need for a ceasefire' in a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to a prior British government statement.

On Sunday, Starmer stressed that there is no moral equivalence between Israel and Hamas and expressed his condolences for the deaths of five hostages kidnapped during the October 7 Hamas attack, which claimed approximately 1,200 lives and resulted in 250 people being taken hostage according to Israeli figures.

Local health authorities in Gaza report that more than 39,000 Palestinians have been killed in the Israeli offensive, a toll that includes both fighters and civilians.

(With inputs from agencies.)