London, 20 February 2024 (PA Media/dpa/MIA) - Britain's Prince William has called for fighting to end “as soon as possible” in the Israel-Hamas war and increased humanitarian support for Gaza.

Heir to the throne William issued a statement ahead of carrying out visits to recognize the human suffering caused by conflict in the Middle East and the global rise in anti-Semitism.

The future king said he was “deeply concerned” about the “terrible human cost” since the Hamas terror attack, and said there was a “desperate need” for increased humanitarian support for Gaza.

“I remain deeply concerned about the terrible human cost of the conflict in the Middle East since the Hamas terrorist attack on October 7. Too many have been killed,” he said.

“I, like so many others, want to see an end to the fighting as soon as possible. There is a desperate need for increased humanitarian support to Gaza. It’s critical that aid gets in and the hostages are released.

“Sometimes it is only when faced with the sheer scale of human suffering that the importance of permanent peace is brought home.

“Even in the darkest hour, we must not succumb to the counsel of despair. I continue to cling to the hope that a brighter future can be found and I refuse to give up on that.”

William will meet aid workers helping to provide humanitarian support in the region, hearing about the experiences of those on the ground, and separately join a synagogue discussion with young people from different communities who are advocates against hatred and anti-Semitism.

Photo: MIA archive