The death toll from Israeli strikes on Lebanon has surpassed 3,000, according to Lebanese health officials. The figure marks a grim milestone in a conflict that shows no signs of abating. Downing Street has now issued an urgent call for an immediate ceasefire, but the messaging from the Foreign Office has been muddled.
Leaks suggest a split between the Prime Minister's office and the Foreign Secretary, with the latter pushing for a stronger condemnation of Israel. Backbench Labour MPs are growing restless, with a letter of 50 signatures demanding the government 'stop equivocating' on the issue. The PM's position is delicate: too strong a stance risks alienating the US and Israel, too weak risks a backbench revolt.
Expect more behind-the-scenes wrangling as the death count rises.
