British PM Rishi Sunak says UK standing by Israel in its darkest hour

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak says Britain is standing by Israel in its "darkest hour" as it wages war on Hamas following the Palestinian militant group's October 7 attack. Sunak spoke alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday, a day after US President Joe Biden made a similar trip to Israel to express solidarity.

"I am proud to stand here with you in Israel's darkest hour as your friend," Sunak said.

The UK prime minister acknowledged the "shocking scenes" over the past day, including the aftermath of an explosion at a Gaza hospital, saying "we mourn the loss of every innocent life."


Sunak plans to travel to Saudi Arabia later Thursday to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, as Britain tries to dampen down regional tensions, get aid into Gaza and secure the release of UK hostages held by Hamas.