UK鈥檚 Sunak in call to Netanyahu stresses need to minimize Gaza civilan casualties

Britain's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak chairs a cabinet meeting in 10 Downing Street in London on Oct. 31, 2023. (Reuters)
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  • Sunak discussed the situation in the West Bank and "the long-term goal of a two-state solution" with Netanyahu
  • He has also spoken with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas

LONDON: Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stressed the importance of taking all possible measures to minimize casualties and protect civilians in a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday.

鈥淭he Prime Minister reiterated the UK鈥檚 resolute backing for Israel鈥檚 right to defend itself against terrorism, while emphasizing the importance of taking all possible measures to minimize civilian casualties,鈥� the Downing Street statement said.

The readout from Sunak鈥檚 office said he also discussed the situation in the West Bank and 鈥渢he long-term goal of a two-state solution鈥� with Netanyahu.

鈥淭he Prime Minister noted the importance of all sides avoiding actions that would inflame tensions and keeping hope alive for a more secure and prosperous future for both Israelis and Palestinians,鈥� the statement said.

The British prime minister鈥檚 office said Sunak has also spoken with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and discussed the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza.

鈥淗e said the UK would continue to support diplomatic action to protect Palestinian civilians, prevent wider escalation and secure a peaceful and lasting resolution to the crisis,鈥� a separate Downing Street statement said.