Hilary Benn MP, Labour’s Shadow Foreign Secretary, commenting on the recent escalation of violence in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, said:

“The killing of Israelis in recent terrorist attacks is deeply shocking. This increase in violence, which has also seen a number of deaths in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, is a cause of grave concern. Our thoughts and our hearts go out to the families of all the innocent victims.

“More killing will achieve nothing and the situation demands courageous leadership from Israeli and Palestinian politicians alike. They should condemn acts of violence, avoid provocative statements, de-escalate tensions and work towards a two-state solution so that their citizens can live together side by side in peace and security.”