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Prime Minister calls for ceasefire but Israeli leader warns of 'full force' strikes

- LIZZY BUCHAN and ANDY LINES

KEIR Starmer last night pleaded for an end to the cycle of violence in the Middle East as the UK backed a push for a ceasefire in Lebanon.

In his first address to the UN General Assembly in New York, the Prime Minister said both Israel and Hezbollah must take steps to avert an all-out regional war.

The UK joined allies including the US and the EU to demand a 21-day ceasefire in Lebanon, to give space to find a diplomatic solution.

A joint statement said: "The situation between Lebanon and Israel since October 8, 2023 is intolerable and presents an unacceptable risk of a broader regional escalation.

"This is in nobody's interest, neither of the people of Israel nor of the people of Lebanon." The UK has been part of intense diplomatic efforts to stem the conflict.

In a direct address to Israel and Hezbollah, and flanked by Home Secretary David Lammy, Mr Starmer said: "Stop the violence, step back from the brink. We need to see an immediate ceasefire to provide space for a diplomatic settlement. We are working with all partners to that end.

"Further escalation serves no one. It offers nothing but more suffering for innocent people on all sides and the prospect of a wider war that no one can control." The PM called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza too, adding: "It shames us all that the suffering in Gaza continues to grow.