‘Israel has the right, indeed the duty, to defend herself’

The leader of the Labour Party has issued a statement one week after the “unimaginable and heartbreaking news of terrorist attacks on Israel from Gaza by Hamas.”

Keir Starmer MP said:

“In the days that have followed we have heard horrific stories of the murder and mutilation of men, women and children, along with the horror of hostage taking. Israel has the right, indeed the duty, to defend herself and rescue these hostages. Responsibility for what has happened sits with the terrorists of Hamas; and we repeat our call for Hamas to release all hostages.

“I’ve met with members of the British Jewish community this week and told them that we stand with Israel and with them at this time. I know this is a distressing and worrying time and welcome the extra funding for the CST. There must be zero tolerance of any increase in antisemitism or islamophobia.

“Hamas has no interest in peace. No interest in protecting Palestinians.

“We call on all parties to act in line with international law, including allowing humanitarian access of food, water, electricity and medicines to Gaza and ensuring safe humanitarian corridors in Gaza for those fleeing violence.

“Seven days on from the darkest day in Israel’s recent history, our resolve in the face of terrorism will not falter.”