UK premier urges Israel to urgently lift restrictions on aid to Gaza

ISTANBUL

Following a phone call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Thursday, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged Israel to urgently lift restrictions on aid to Gaza.

"Discussing the appalling humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the prime minister set out the work the UK is doing to improve the situation on the ground while continuing to press for a ceasefire. He said that Israel must urgently lift its restrictions on aid and Hamas must immediately and unconditionally release all hostages," according to a statement from the UK premier's office.

It noted that Starmer shared progress on his work toward a long-term plan for peace to achieve lasting security in the region.

"The leaders resolved to continue to work closely together to preserve the prospect of a two-state solution, which they reaffirmed was the only way to guarantee peace and security for Palestinians and Israelis," the statement added.

Starmer said last month that the UK would recognize a Palestinian state in September unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire in Gaza and revives the prospect of a two-state solution.

Last November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.

The International Court of Justice, in its interim ruling on Gaza last year, said that it is "plausible" that Israel's actions could amount to genocide.

The court issued provisional measures, requiring Israel to abide by international law and ensure aid and services reach Palestinians under siege in Gaza.