Palestinian Embassy welcomes UK Labour leader’s apology over party’s initial Gaza response
GAZA CITY: Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem survived what Palestinian security sources described as an Israeli assassination attempt after an airstrike reportedly targeted his vehicle in Gaza, while fresh attacks across the enclave left at least six people dead, according to Saudi-based Al Arabiya television.
Security sources said the strike targeted Qassem’s car, but he was not inside the vehicle at the time. However, his bodyguard was reportedly killed in the attack. Israeli authorities had not immediately commented on the reported operation.
Meanwhile, Israeli military operations continued across Gaza despite the ceasefire that has officially remained in effect since last October. Health officials reported that at least 12 Palestinians were killed and 20 others injured during the past 24 hours in separate attacks across the territory.
According to Palestinian health authorities, the overall death toll since the conflict began on October 8, 2023, has reached 73,118, while 173,615 people have been injured. Officials also said the fighting has severely damaged nearly 90 percent of Gaza’s civilian infrastructure, leaving widespread destruction across the enclave.
Diplomatic pressure grows in Britain
Separately, the Palestinian Embassy in the United Kingdom welcomed comments by UK politician Andy Burnham, who apologised for the Labour Party’s initial response to the conflict in Gaza.
In an official statement, the embassy acknowledged Burnham’s admission that Labour “didn’t get it right” during the early stages of the war. It also urged the United Kingdom to expand sanctions related to the Israeli occupation, halt arms sales to Israel, prohibit trade with Israeli settlements, and take action against British companies operating in occupied territories.
Calls for stronger international action
Palestinian Ambassador to the United Kingdom Husam Zomlot welcomed Burnham’s remarks but stressed that political statements must now translate into concrete policy measures consistent with international law.
Burnham, speaking to The Guardian, said he recognised concerns over Labour’s handling of the conflict and pledged to adopt a firmer approach toward the Israeli government if he becomes prime minister. He acknowledged that many believed the party’s initial response had been inadequate and said greater action would be necessary moving forward.
