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LONDON DAILY ARCHIVE

PMQs: Rishi Sunak urged to back call for Israel and Gaza ceasefire

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing calls from over 40 MPs to call for a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza conflict.

19 October 2023 · 02:41 UTC

 These MPs, from various political parties, are concerned about civilian casualties and are urging humanitarian access to essential supplies in Gaza.

During Prime Minister's Questions, Sunak emphasized Israel's right to self-defense and expressed doubt about Hamas respecting a ceasefire. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer also supported Israel's right to defend itself but called for humanitarian aid access to Gaza.

There's a parliamentary motion for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid, supported by MPs from different parties, including former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn. Aid agencies and the UN have also called for a ceasefire and emergency supplies for Gaza.

Efforts are being made to open the Rafah crossing for UK citizens and aid delivery. A recent explosion in Gaza City led to disputes about its cause, with British intelligence working to determine the facts.