Keir Starmer has condemned Israel’s plans to escalate the war in Gaza as he urged Benjamin Netanyahu to “step away from the path of destruction”.
The PM said the move was wrong and would lead to more bloodshed.
On Thursday the Israeli leader’s security cabinet approved his plan to occupy Gaza City.
But Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has slammed the takeover plan as a “disaster” and “exactly what Hamas wanted”.
In a statement Sir Keir said: “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.
“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.
“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.”
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