Foreign Secretary James Cleverly has stated that a “significant number” of dual British-Israeli nationals were affected by the violence following Hamas’ attacks. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak visited a synagogue in north London to express solidarity with Israel and reassure Britain’s Jewish community. He emphasized that there are not two sides to the events and stated, “There is no question of balance. I stand with Israel.”
During his trip to Staffordshire, Sunak reiterated the UK’s solidarity with Israel, condemning the “barbaric acts of terrorism” carried out by Hamas. He also emphasized that Hamas is a designated terrorist organization, and anyone supporting them will be held accountable.
Furthermore, Cleverly highlighted the involvement of British-Israeli dual nationals in the terrorist atrocities but urged caution in confirming casualty figures. The UK government stands ready to support British citizens whose loved ones have been affected by the violence.
The situation escalated when Hamas gunmen captured Israeli citizens and military personnel, reportedly taking them to undisclosed locations in the Gaza Strip. The captives’ lives are being threatened, with Hamas threatening to livestream their deaths if Israel targets civilian areas in Gaza.
The UK government made its support for Israel evident by illuminating the Houses of Parliament in the colors of the Israeli flag. Cleverly explained that solidarity is expressed because terrorists have taken actions to murder and kidnap individuals.
In response to pro-Palestinian protests around the country, Cleverly called for a pause in these demonstrations, as they were causing distress to the Jewish community. Several British nationals, including Nathanel Young, Jack Marlowe, Bernard Cowan, and photographer Dan Darlington, have been identified as victims of the violence.
Israel has sealed off the Gaza Strip, blocking the entry of essential supplies and launching retaliatory airstrikes. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Israel’s actions will have long-lasting consequences for its enemies.
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