UK’s newly elected prime minister, Keir Starmer, deemed the ongoing fighting between Israel and Hezbollah along the Lebanon border as “very concerning,” saying it is crucial that all parties act with caution.

In a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the two leaders discussed the importance of regional security in the Middle East, with Starmer saying he was committed to continuing the UK and Israel’s vital cooperation to deter malign threats.

“Turning to the conflict in Gaza, the Prime Minister reiterated his condolences for the tragic loss of life following the October attacks. He then set out the clear and urgent need for a ceasefire, the return of hostages and an immediate increase in the volume of humanitarian aid reaching civilians,” Starmer’s office said in a readout.

The British PM added that it was also important to ensure the long-term conditions for a two-state solution were in place, including ensuring the Palestinian Authority had the financial means to operate effectively.