UK PM Rishi Sunak visits President Abbas and declares that Hamas does not represent for the Palestinian people

 UK PM Rishi Sunak visits President Abbas and declares that Hamas does not represent for the Palestinian people

Friday in Cairo saw the meeting between British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.

The UK PM also emphasized the need of allowing supplies into Gaza and urged Hamas and Israel to refrain from using civilians as human shields during their battle.

According to his office, Sunak highlighted the need of averting a larger regional war and stopping any more needless loss of civilian life during the negotiations.

According to Reuters, Sunak told broadcasters in Cairo, "We've also made good progress on concrete areas like ensuring access for humanitarian aid to those who need it."

I conveyed my regrets for the loss of civilian life in Gaza, especially at the Al Ahli hospital, to President Abbas during our meeting today. We are aware that Hamas does not speak for all Palestinians. The Palestinian Authority's efforts to impose stability are supported by the UK, Rishi Sunak tweeted.

"Opening the Rafah border has always been a top priority for us as this situation has developed. It's a recurring theme in all of my talks, so I'm thrilled that it will finally happen soon," Sunak added.

"(Sisi) and I had having conversations about how the UK can provide tangible support on the ground to ensure the sustainability of all that aid through the crossing."

On Thursday, Sunak also traveled to Jerusalem to show his support for Israel and to take part in talks aimed at obtaining the release of hostages held by Hamas. He later met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Saudi Arabia and urged bin Salman to use Saudi Arabia's position of leadership in the region to advance stability.

Sunak's office said that he conveyed "deep condolences" for the loss of civilian life in Gaza, particularly the damage of the hospital, during his meetings with Abbas on Friday.

"(The leaders) underlined that Hamas does not speak for the Palestinian people and denounced the terrorist acts committed by the group. The Prime Minister reaffirmed his commitment to allowing aid workers access to Gaza, according to the statement.