New British Prime Minister Calls for Deepening Relations with Israel in Call with Netanyahu

The newly elected Prime Minister of Britain, Keir Starmer, expressed his eagerness to deepen the "close relations between the two countries" during a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday, July 7. According to a statement from the British Prime Minister's office, Starmer, a member of the Labour Party, emphasized that Gaza clearly and urgently needs a ceasefire. He also stated that hostages held by Hamas must be released and humanitarian aid to Gaza should be immediately increased. The British Prime Minister further mentioned that it is essential to ensure that long-term conditions for a two-state solution are established, including ensuring that the Palestinian Authority has the financial means to manage affairs effectively. The British Prime Minister's office also expressed concern about the security situation in northern Israel, where the country is engaged with heavily armed Hezbollah militants, stating that it is important for all to "act cautiously." Hezbollah is financially and militarily supported by the Islamic Republic of Iran. Starmer discussed Middle Eastern security with Netanyahu and told the Israeli Prime Minister that he is "committed to continuing the vital cooperation between Britain and Israel" to "deter malicious threats."