EXERCISE RESTRAINT, PM URGES ISRAEL
The Prime Minister has urged Israel to "exercise restraint" and avoid civilian casualties as it takes action against Hamas in Gaza, MPs have been told.
Making a Commons statement, David Cameron said it was vital for Hamas to engage with ceasefire proposals.
He said the Government backed UN resolutions aimed at tackling the ongoing crisis.
Mr Cameron said after an "unprecedented barrage" of 1,850 rockets, Israel had a right to defend itself.
He told MPs: "I share the grave concern in the international community about the heavy toll on civilian casualties - the figures are very disturbing.
"Over 500 have now reportedly been killed in Gaza and over 3,000 people injured. The UN estimated over 83,000 people have been displaced so far.
"Israel has also faced loss of life with 18 soldiers and two civilians killed including 13 soldiers yesterday alone.
"I spoke to prime minister (Benjamin) Netanyahu again about this crisis last night. I repeated our recognition of Israel's right to take proportionate action to defend itself and our condemnation of Hamas's refusal to end their rocket attacks despite all efforts to broker a cease fire.
"But I urged him to do everything to avoid civilian casualties, exercise restraint and to help find ways to bring this situation to an end."
Mr Cameron said the Israeli government had been ready to take part in a ceasefire but Hamas had refused.
He said the Government "strongly endorsed" a UN resolution on this crisis last night, saying it was vital Hamas recognised the need to end the crisis.
He said: "In particular we urge Hamas to engage with the ceasefire proposals put forward by the Egyptian government. It is only be securing a ceasefire the space can be created to address the underlying issues and return to the long and painstaking task of lasting and secure peace we all want to see."
