“The Israeli Government’s denial of essential humanitarian assistance to the civilian population is unacceptable and risks breaching International Humanitarian Law,” a joint statement released by the British government said.

“We oppose any attempt to expand settlements in the West Bank … We will not hesitate to take further action, including targeted sanctions.”

In response, Netanyahu said that “the leaders in London, Ottawa and Paris are offering a huge prize for the genocidal attack on Israel on 7th October while inviting more such atrocities”.

He said that Israel will defend itself until total victory is achieved and reiterated the conditions to end the war: releasing the remaining hostages and demilitarising the Gaza strip.

The joint statement called the level of human suffering in Gaza “intolerable” and condemned the “ abhorrent language used recently by members of the Israeli Government, threatening that, in their despair at the destruction of Gaza, civilians will start to relocate.”

“Permanent forced displacement is a breach of international humanitarian law.”

The statement further acknowledged the “heinous” 7th October Hamas attacks but called this escalation “wholly disproportionate”.

The statement concludes by expressing support for efforts led by the United States, Egypt and Qatar for an immediate ceasefire and says that they are committed to committed to recognising a Palestinian state as part of a two-state solution to the conflict.

Hamas welcomed the statement, describing it as an “important step” toward restoring the principles of international law.

Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has displaced nearly all of its two million residents and killed upwards of 50,000 people – most of which were innocent civilians.

Do you think Malta and the European Union as a whole should follow suit?