Shapps confirms it is ‘very likely’ Britains are among hostages held by Hamas in Gaza
Prime minister Rishi Sunak speaks of 'complex situation' involving hostages, the first time UK government appear to confirm earlier reports of Brits being taken
Defence Secretary Grant Shapps has confirmed it “seems very likely’ there are British hostages in Gaza.
Asked by Sky News if there are Britons among the hostages taken by Hamas, Shapps said: “It seems very likely that there are. We don’t have exact data on that for obvious reasons. ”
But he added:””I can’t go into specific detail. What I can tell you is it is highly likely, no one will know for sure, that there are those with either British nationals or people with joint nationality involved in the hostage situation, as has been reported previously.”
“But within Gaza there will also be Brits or possibly people with dual nationalities as well.
The prime minister has spoken to the Egyptian president about using that border to get people out.”
Prime minister Rishi Sunak later said there was a “complex situation” when asked to comment on British hostages being taken.
Shapps also said he has seen “distressing videos” of Hamas beheading and raping people, and dragging bodies through the street.
He also said “we’re sending assistance and expertise, including intelligence, to the region, and to a number of different locations.
“But this is not the same as saying we’re sending people into Gaza itself.”
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
