Academics challenge Starmer to accept Israel’s siege of Gaza is against international law – UK politics live

Labour urged to clarify its position on collective punishment by 39 academics who say party must confirm it opposes the commission of war crimes'

Rishi Sunak told cabinet this morning that Britons are likely to be among those being held hostage by Hamas.

In the Commons yesterday he said that at least six Britons were dead and that a further 10 were missing, some of whom were also thought to be dead.

[The PM] underscored the abhorrence of Hamas's deliberate targeting of civilians and said the UK would continue to stand with Israel and respect their right to self-defence. He said that the UK will play its part to help alleviate the unfolding humanitarian crisis, recognising that Hamas is actively seeking to endanger Palestinian civilians. The prime minister also added that Hamas were responsible for the murder and suspected abduction of British nationals.

We continue to urge Israel as a democracy we work closely with to act within international law in their actions, I think they are taking steps to do that.

We are in discussions and are keen to see water restored to the area.

We do believe it is vital that water supplies are restored, including local capacity, and we'll continue to have discussions on that front.