Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has issued a stark warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging him to “step away from the path of destruction” as Israel prepares to intensify its military operations in Gaza.
Starmer condemned the Israeli government’s decision to escalate the offensive, stressing that the move would worsen the already dire humanitarian situation in the region.
“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,” he said.
Israel’s Plan Sparks Global Criticism
The Israeli security cabinet approved a controversial plan on Thursday to occupy Gaza City, a move that has not only drawn criticism from international allies but has also split opinions within Israel itself.
Opposition leader Yair Lapid branded the decision a “disaster” and said it was “exactly what Hamas wanted.”
With growing calls for de-escalation, Starmer’s intervention signals a significant shift in tone from the UK’s opposition leader, as concerns mount over the humanitarian toll and lack of diplomatic progress in the Middle East.
In his statement, Starmer outlined a comprehensive approach to the crisis, calling for:
- An immediate ceasefire
- A sharp increase in humanitarian aid
- The release of all hostages held by Hamas
- A negotiated settlement for a lasting peace
“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,” he said.
He further reaffirmed Labour’s backing for a long-term two-state solution, stressing the importance of both Israeli and Palestinian engagement in meaningful talks.
“Together with our allies, we are working on a long-term plan to secure peace in the region… But without both sides engaging in good faith in negotiations, that prospect is vanishing before our eyes.”
Tory Chair Backs Israel’s Defence Stance
In contrast, Conservative Party chair Kevin Hollinrake defended Israel’s actions, emphasising the ongoing threat from Hamas and the urgency of hostage recovery.
“We don’t want to see an escalation, but people need to remember there are still 50 hostages still captive in Gaza held by Hamas,” Hollinrake told Sky News.
He also criticised Starmer’s potential move to recognise Palestine next month in the absence of a ceasefire.
“Any kind of unconditional ceasefire or recognition of a Palestinian state has got to be wrong at this time… I’ve not seen any proposal on the table that will do that”, he added.
As violence and suffering continue to intensify in Gaza, international pressure is building on both Israel and Hamas to come to the table. Starmer’s latest comments underline a growing impatience among world leaders seeking a resolution.
Whether Netanyahu will heed these warnings remains uncertain, but with tensions at a breaking point, the world is watching closely.
