Middle East tensions: UK PM begs for cessation of hostilities, says military strikes not solution

Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called for swift diplomatic action and an immediate ceasefire to prevent further bloodshed between Israel and Hezbollah.

Starmer’s plea came during a UN Security Council meeting, following a devastating day of Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon that left at least 51 people dead – the country’s deadliest day since the 1975-90 civil war.

The UK Prime Minister emphasized the need for international cooperation to broker a peaceful resolution and prevent the conflict from spiraling out of control.

“The region is on the brink. We need an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Lebanese Hezbollah and the implementation of a political plan which allows Israeli and Lebanese civilians to return to their homes to live in peace and security,” Starmer said.

“That security will come through diplomacy, not escalation. There is no military solution here, nor is there a military-only solution to the conflict in Gaza. This council must demand, again, an immediate, full and complete ceasefire in Gaza with the release of all the hostages.”