Israel-Hamas war: UK and Germany call for urgent, sustainable ceasefire

UK Foreign Minister David Cameron and his German counterpart, Annalena Baerbock, stated on Saturday that the "need is urgent" for a "sustainable ceasefire" in Gaza, but it is not "right now," reported a Sunday Times. The pressure was raised on Israel to bring its operation against Hamas to a swift but "sustainable" end, emphasizing that "too many civilians have been killed" in the conflict. The ministers expressed the importance of doing all that can be done to pave the way for a sustainable ceasefire leading to a sustainable peace, stating that the sooner it comes, the better.

UK, Germany to vouch for ‘sustainable ceasefire’

Here are the top 7 points highlighted on the Israel-Hamas war

1. Joint Statement on Ceasefire: In a joint Sunday Times article, it was emphasized by UK Foreign Minister David Cameron and German counterpart Annalena Baerbock that there is an urgent need for a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza, but they do not believe calling for a general and immediate ceasefire right now is the way forward.

2. Reasons for Operation: The ministers stated that Israel is forced to defend itself because Hamas barbarically attacked Israel and continues to fire rockets daily, emphasizing that Hamas must lay down its arms.

3. UN General Assembly's Call for Ceasefire: The United Nations General Assembly overwhelmingly demanded a ceasefire in Gaza, but the UK abstained from the vote.

4. Pressure on Israel: Israel is facing increasing pressure from its allies, with the United States criticizing its bombings as "indiscriminate" in response to the October 7 attacks by Hamas.

5. War in Gaza: The conflict in Gaza began after Hamas terrorists attacked southern communities on October 7, resulting in numerous casualties and hostages taken to Gaza.

6. French Involvement: French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna arrived in Tel Aviv, condemning an Israeli strike in Gaza that killed a French Foreign Ministry employee and calling for an immediate and durable truce.

7. Settler Attacks in the West Bank: Colonna condemned increasing attacks by Israeli settlers on Palestinians in the West Bank, stating that settlers driven by ideological blindness must be punished.