PM calls with the President of the Palestinian Authority and President of Türkiye

Monday, 16 October 2023 16:33

Call with President of the Palestinian Authority Mahmoud Abbas A No10 spokesperson said: The Prime Minister spoke to President of the Palestinian Authority Mahmoud Abbas this morning. He expressed his condolences for the deaths of Palestinian civilians, who have been caught up in the aftermath of Hamas’s terror attack. The Prime Minister reiterated the UK’s position that Hamas does not speak for ordinary Palestinians. The leaders agreed on the importance of...Request free trial

Call with President of the Palestinian Authority Mahmoud Abbas

A No10 spokesperson said:

The Prime Minister spoke to President of the Palestinian Authority Mahmoud Abbas this morning.

He expressed his condolences for the deaths of Palestinian civilians, who have been caught up in the aftermath of Hamas’s terror attack. The Prime Minister reiterated the UK’s position that Hamas does not speak for ordinary Palestinians.

The leaders agreed on the importance of avoiding further regional escalation and ensuring calm in the West Bank. The Prime Minister committed the UK’s support for the Palestinian Authority in trying to establish peace and stability. They also discussed support for Gaza, including humanitarian aid and measures to protect civilians.

More broadly, the Prime Minister and President Abbas agreed that the international community must intensify efforts to break the cycle of violence in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. The Prime Minister affirmed that the UK continues to support a two-state solution, with a Palestinian state existing alongside a safe and secure Israel.

ENDS

Call with President of Türkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan

A No10 spokesperson said:

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak spoke to President of Türkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, this afternoon about the conflict in Gaza following Hamas’ terror attack.

The Prime Minister welcomed the opportunity to speak to President Erdoğan at this critical time, as an influential regional partner and NATO ally. The leaders shared their concerns about the risk of violence spreading in the region and agreed to work together to mitigate against further escalation.

The Prime Minister updated on the UK’s military deployments to the region, which provide surveillance capabilities and offer a platform to support humanitarian operations if needed.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed the UK’s support for Israel’s right to defend itself following last week’s abhorrent attack, noting that Hamas does not represent the Palestinian people. They discussed the importance of facilitating humanitarian aid to Gaza and taking all reasonable measures to protect civilians caught up in the violence.

The leaders also agreed to work together with international partners to reinvigorate the Middle East Peace Process and bring about a peaceful and lasting resolution to this conflict.