The UK’s response to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East will be addressed by Rishi Sunak in front of MPs, Downing Street has announced. On Monday, the prime minister is due to deliver a statement outlining the government’s condemnation of the recent attacks, assistance for British nationals caught in the violence, and measures to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Sunak will also visit the Jewish community ahead of the meeting to reiterate the UK’s “zero-tolerance for antisemitic abuse”. The foreign secretary, James Cleverly, will attend the annual Berlin Process Summit of Western Balkan leaders later the same day, where he will seek support for Israel.
Hamas has confirmed that nearly 400,000 people in northern Gaza have complied with Israel’s request to move south. This comes as the UN warns that fuel reserves in hospitals in Gaza will run out on Monday, which could lead to a humanitarian disaster. Israel has plans to launch a ground offensive in the area also. The Met Police reported last week a “massive increase” in antisemitic offenses in London following the attacks in Israel. The UK has therefore taken steps to improve the security of the Jewish community.
The prime minister has held talks with global leaders, including the King of Jordan, and will hold further discussions with Middle Eastern leaders in the coming days. There are concerns for conditions in Gaza, with officials hoping to open the Rafah border crossing to allow UK citizens to leave. Hundreds of tons of aid are also on hold in the Sinai Peninsula due to the closure of the border. Additionally, fuel, water, and energy supplies to Gaza have been interrupted, although the provision of water resumed on Sunday.
The UK government is set to outline its response to the Middle East crisis in Parliament. Sunak is scheduled to discuss the country’s aid plans for Israel and the humanitarian situation in Gaza in Monday’s meeting. With more talks among leaders scheduled over the coming days, the government aims to cement support for Israel. The global community is focused on resolving the current crisis in Gaza, with fears of a humanitarian crisis among residents growing. Sunak’s statement is part of the UK’s effort to offer aid and support to people caught up in the violence
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More