UK says it is in interests of both Israelis, Palestinians to 'urgently' agree on a deal

By Burak Bir

LONDON (AA) - The British foreign secretary said Thursday that reaching a deal "urgently" is in the long-term interests of both Israelis and Palestinians as well as the wider region.

"We are at a crucial moment for global stability. The coming hours and days could define the future of the Middle East," David Lammy said in a statement.

His remarks came as mediators from the US, Qatar, Egypt and Israel are taking part in Gaza cease-fire talks.

Describing the situation in the besieged enclave as "devastating," Lammy noted that the Israeli strike on the al-Tabeen school in the strip demonstrated that "Palestinians in Gaza have nowhere safe to turn."

“These talks are an opportunity to secure an immediate ceasefire that protects civilians in Gaza, secures the release of hostages still cruelly held by Hamas and restores stability at a dangerous moment for the region," he added.

Recalling that he held talks with partners from across the region on the urgent need to bring this conflict to an end, the foreign secretary said "it is clear" that a cease-fire would not only protect civilians in Gaza, but also pave the way for wider de-escalation and bring much-needed stability for the Middle East.

“It is in the interests of both Israelis and Palestinians for a deal to be agreed, urgently. I urge all parties to engage in the negotiations in good faith and show the flexibility needed to reach an agreement," he added, thanking Qatar, Egypt, the US and all international partners for their efforts.

Meanwhile, media reports, citing a diplomatic source said that Lammy is set to travel to Israel "in an attempt to prevent an all-out war in the Middle East."