UK calls for 'transparent, independent inquiry' into Gaza border deaths
British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson condemns 'incitement and rocket fire against Israel' but calls on Israel to investigate deaths of over 100 Palestinians in Gaza border clashes; also says UK 'committed to making sure Iran continues to abide by its obligations under nuclear deal.'
British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson called on Israel "to carry out a transparent, independent inquiry" into the deaths of Palestinians in Gaza border clashes on Wednesday.
During a meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in London, Johnson also condemned the "incitement and rocket fire against Israel."
"The people of Israel and Gaza have the right to live safely in peace, without constant fear for their security," Johnson said in a statement released by his office.
"We continue to press both Israel and the Palestinian Authority on the need to refrain from actions which make peace more difficult. Settlement construction is a significant barrier to achieving this goal, as are terrorism, incitement to violence, and the refusal by some to acknowledge Israel’s right to exist," he added.
British Prime Minister Theresa May also expressed concern "about the loss of Palestinian lives" in Gaza in her meeting with Netanyahu earlier Wednesday.
Britain "absolutely recognizes" the Israel's right to self-defense against "extremists and terrorists," she said.
"But with 100 Palestinian lives lost and a deteriorating situation in Gaza, I hope we can talk about how we can alleviate that situation, and how we can ensure that we can get back to a position where we are able to find a way through to talk about a two-state solution," May added.
In his own meeting with Netanyahu, Johnson also addressed the Iranian nuclear deal also echoing May's remarks.
"The UK, alongside France and Germany, firmly believes that the Iran nuclear deal is the best way to ensure a safe, secure future for the region," Johnson said. "We are committed to making sure Iran continues to abide by its obligations under the deal and are in full agreement with Israel that we must prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons."
"The UK has an unwavering commitment to Israel’s security and stability and we look forward to continuing to work together to achieve our common goals," he stressed.
