Prime Minister Keir Starmer has strongly criticized plans for pro-Palestine protests coinciding with the anniversary of the October 7 attacks on Israel, calling them 'un-British' and disrespectful. He highlighted the rise in antisemitism in the United Kingdom, referencing last week's deadly attack on a Manchester synagogue and expressing solidarity with Jewish communities. Nearly 500 people were arrested at a recent rally in support of the banned group Palestine Action, prompting police to receive new powers to manage repeat protests.

Starmer described the October 7 attack as the worst against Jewish people since the Holocaust and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the families of British hostages still held in Gaza. He outlined government priorities in the Middle East, including securing a ceasefire, releasing hostages, and advancing towards a two-state solution, welcoming recent United States-led peace efforts. Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey also condemned the rise in antisemitism and expressed hope for successful peace talks that would end the conflict and restore security for both Israelis and Palestinians.