The death toll in Gaza City rose sharply overnight as Israeli airstrikes killed at least 11 people, including three children, according to Palestinian medics. The strikes, which hit a residential block in the Shuja'iyya neighbourhood, have drawn an urgent call from the UK government for an immediate de-escalation and unhindered humanitarian access to the besieged enclave.
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly issued a statement early this morning expressing deep concern over the loss of civilian life and urging all parties to step back from the brink. “The UK condemns any action that causes civilian casualties,” Cleverly said. “We call on Israel to exercise restraint and on Hamas to cease all rocket fire. The priority must be the protection of civilians and the delivery of vital aid.”
The latest violence erupted after weeks of rising tensions in the occupied territories. Hamas and other militant groups have launched barrages of rockets into southern Israel, prompting the Israeli military to intensify its strikes across Gaza. The UK government has consistently supported Israel’s right to self-defence but has also stressed the need to avoid civilian harm.
In Gaza City, rescue workers are still digging through the rubble of the flattened building. The dead include a mother and her two young children, neighbours said. Hospitals are struggling to cope with the influx of wounded, with medical supplies running low due to the strict blockade imposed by Israel and Egypt.
The UK’s call for humanitarian access comes as the United Nations warns that Gaza’s health system is on the verge of collapse. The World Food Programme has also halted some distributions due to insecurity. Britain has pledged an additional £10 million in aid but says delivery depends on safe passage.
Downing Street confirmed that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to urge restraint. A Number 10 source said the conversation was “frank” and that Sunak stressed the importance of avoiding a full-scale ground invasion.
The conflict is exacting a heavy toll on ordinary families already battered by years of blockade and periodic wars. In the UK, pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli groups have held rival protests. The government faces pressure from Labour MPs to condemn Israel more strongly, while Conservative backbenchers have urged unwavering support.
For now, the skies over Gaza are quiet but the threat of further escalation remains. The UK insists a two-state solution is the only path to lasting peace, but with each airstrike and rocket, that prospect seems ever more distant.
