British PM Rishi Sunak Denounces Hamas’ ‘Horror and Barbarism,’ Reaffirms Support for Israel
London: Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of the United Kingdom has strongly condemned the horror and barbarism unleashed by the Palestinian militant group Hamas. As the conflict in the Middle East enters its second week, Sunak reiterated the UK’s unwavering support for Israel in restoring security.
In a statement released by 10 Downing Street and shared on social media, the British Indian leader expressed his commitment to ensuring the safety of the Jewish community in the UK. He warned against the propagation of shameful antisemitism, addressing the thousands of pro-Palestine protesters who filled the streets of London, some chanting anti-Israel slogans. Authorities made 15 arrests on suspicion of public order offenses and criminal damage.
Sunak’s statement emphasized the gravity of the recent events: No words can adequately describe the horror and barbarism that unfolded in Israel a week ago. Lives were tragically taken away from daughters, sons, mothers, fathers, husbands, wives, and grandparents in the cruelest and most horrific manner.
Acknowledging the challenging days ahead, the Prime Minister offered unwavering support to the people of Israel, stating, Britain stands with you. What transpired was an act of pure evil, and Israel has the right to defend itself. We will spare no effort in assisting Israel to restore the security it rightly deserves.
Sunak also expressed solidarity with the British citizens affected by the conflict and extended his heartfelt condolences to all families experiencing pain and suffering.
Turning his attention to the Jewish community in the UK, the Prime Minister acknowledged their anguish: I understand that you are hurting and reeling from these despicable terrorist acts… We have witnessed intimidating behavior and disgraceful antisemitism both online and on our streets as attempts are made to stoke tensions. I want to make it clear: this will not be tolerated. Not here. Not in Britain. Not in this century. He assured that the government would take every measure to protect Jewish citizens within the country.
I am resolute in my stance. We stand firmly with Israel, not only today or tomorrow, but always. I stand with you, the British Jewish community, now and always, Sunak added.
Opposition Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer also marked one week since the Hamas strikes on Israel, followed by retaliatory actions. He called for the establishment of safe humanitarian corridors for Palestinians seeking refuge from the violence in Gaza.
A week ago, we woke up to devastating and heart-wrenching news of terrorist attacks on Israel from Gaza by Hamas, Starmer stated, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
As the conflict persists, global attention remains focused on finding a resolution and ensuring the safety and well-being of all those affected by the violence in the region. The international community plays a vital role in fostering peaceful dialogue and pursuing a path towards a sustainable peace agreement.
