Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has urged French President Emmanuel Macron to use his influence to push for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, as tensions in the region continue to escalate.
The discussions took place during a high-profile meeting between the two leaders, where Starmer emphasised the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza and the urgent need for international intervention.
Diplomatic Push for Peace
Starmer, who is widely expected to become the UK's next Prime Minister, stressed the importance of coordinated international efforts to halt the violence. "The suffering in Gaza is unbearable, and the world cannot stand by," he reportedly told Macron.
The French President, known for his active diplomatic role in global conflicts, acknowledged the urgency of the situation but stopped short of committing to specific actions.
Growing Pressure on World Leaders
The Labour leader's intervention comes amid mounting pressure on Western governments to take a stronger stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict. With civilian casualties rising, calls for a ceasefire have intensified from humanitarian organisations and political figures alike.
Starmer's move also positions him as a statesman on the international stage, potentially bolstering his credentials ahead of a likely general election victory.
What This Means for UK-France Relations
The meeting signals a potential shift in UK foreign policy under a future Labour government, with Starmer seeking to rebuild bridges with European allies post-Brexit. Observers note this could mark the beginning of closer cooperation between London and Paris on global issues.
As the conflict in Gaza shows no signs of abating, all eyes remain on whether Macron will heed Starmer's call and what concrete steps might follow these diplomatic exchanges.
