In a response to the ongoing hostilities in the Middle East, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has pledged support to Israel, vowing to provide diplomatic, intelligence, or security assistance if requested.

Number 10 Downing Street affirmed that the United Kingdom stands “ready” to offer military aid to Israel should such assistance be deemed necessary. Furthermore, the government has not ruled out the possibility of evacuating British citizens from the conflict-affected areas, emphasizing that the safety of its citizens remains the “utmost priority.”

Prime Minister Sunak, who chaired the COBRA meeting on Monday afternoon, convened the committee to address the escalating crisis resulting from a surprise attack and hostage-taking by Hamas, followed by Israel’s subsequent bombardment of Gaza. The death toll continues to climb, with reports indicating that at least 700 individuals have lost their lives in Israel, and more than 400 have perished in Gaza.

Highlighting the strong ties between the UK and Israel, Prime Minister Sunak revealed that he had engaged in a telephone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday. He underscored the historical support provided by Britain, stating that the UK had previously supplied “the kinds of equipment that they’ve used to defend themselves over the past couple of days.”

According to the UK government, there are approximately 50,000 to 60,000 British or dual nationals residing in Israel and Gaza.

The Times has reported that more than 10 Britons are feared dead or missing.

During a speech at the Future Resilience Forum on Monday evening, Sunak emphasized that Israel “has the absolute right to defend itself and to deter further incursions.”

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