Rishi Sunak says Israel has an 'absolute right to defend itself' against Hamas attack
The prime minister was joined by a number of UK politicians, including Sir Kier Starmer, who condemned the attack - the deadliest in Israeli territory in years.
Saturday 7 October 2023 20:28, UK
Rishi Sunak has said Israel has an "absolute right to defend itself" after thousands of rockets were fired from the Gaza Strip in a surprise attack by the Hamas militant group.
The prime minister was joined by a number of UK politicians in condemning the attack, which began in the early hours of Saturday.
At least 100 Israelis have been killed in the attacks by Hamas, prompting the country's prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, to declare that his country was "at war".
Hamas 'at war' with Israel after its biggest attack in years - latest updates
Palestinian authorities said 198 people have been killed and 1,600 wounded in Gaza after Israeli forces retaliated to the attack.
Writing on X, formerly known as Twitter, Mr Sunak said he was "shocked by this morning's attacks by Hamas terrorists against Israeli citizens".
"Israel has an absolute right to defend itself," he said.
"We're in contact with Israeli authorities, and British nationals in Israel should follow travel advice."
His words were echoed by Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, who told Sky News the UK "completely condemns these terrorist attacks against Israel".
"We support Israel's right to self-defence and of course we will be working closely with the Israeli government," he added.
"We are already in contact with them and we continue to do so, both to protect British nationals in Israel and to try and bring peace as quickly as possible."
'Deeply alarming'
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer condemned the attacks and said there was "no justification for this act of terror which is being perpetrated by those who seek to undermine any chance for future peace in the region".
"Israel has a right to defend herself."
Sir Keir's predecessor, Jeremy Corbyn, said called the ongoing conflict "deeply alarming".
"We need an immediate ceasefire and urgent de-escalation," he said.
"And we need a route out of this tragic cycle of violence: ending the occupation is the only means of achieving a just and lasting peace."
In response, security minister Tom Tugendhat made reference to Mr Corbyn's previous description of Hamas as "friends" - a comment he later said he regretted.
"Your 'friends' Hamas are murdering children and taking civilian hostages," Mr Tugendhat posted.
"Haven't you said enough?"
Mr Netanyahu said Hamas would "pay a price that it hasn't known until now" as he ordered up a call of reservists.
Israel has blockaded Gaza since the Islamic militant group gained control of the territory in 2007 and the two have fought wars ever since.