The Archbishop of York has urged the government to "look again" at the steps that can be taken to ensure Israel upholds the ceasefire agreement following the latest Israeli military assault on Gaza.
At least 591 people, including more than 200 children, have been killed since Israel resumed fighting on Tuesday, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry.
On Thursday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that it had begun a ground operation in the Palestinian territory, marking an end to the reprieve from large-scale military action since January, when a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took effect.
In a statement, Most Rev Stephen Cottrell described the assault as a "devastating and reckless blow" to the hopes of those seeking peace in the region. The Archbishop emphasised that only dialogue and diplomacy would lead to justice and peace.
He said: "This was a callous and unnecessary act of violence which showed scant regard for the sacredness of human life or the principles of international humanitarian law. This offensive must end, and it must end now. It is imperative that the ceasefire agreement be respected by all sides, unimpeded humanitarian assistance be re-established, and the remaining hostages released immediately."
The Archbishop also appealed to the British government, urging it to "look again at the steps that can be taken to ensure the Government of Israel upholds the ceasefire agreement and abides by its responsibilities under international law."
His statement also included words of support for the Anglican Al Ahli Hospital in Gaza, where many of the wounded are being treated. "My heartfelt prayers are with all those who lost loved ones or who have been wounded by this violence," he shared. "I give thanks to the hospital staff for their courageous and loving service."
He concluded: "In this season of Lent, we pray for our Palestinian Christian sisters and brothers in Gaza and the West Bank, and that Christ will comfort and strengthen them in this otherwise unbearable trial."