Families of hostages meet UK's new leaders, push for action

Families of hostages held in Gaza met today (Tuesday) with the newly formed British government, pleading for assistance in securing the return of their loved ones.

"We extend our gratitude to Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the British government for their dedication and efforts to secure the return of the hostages," the families expressed.

The Hostages Families Forum has conducted constructive meetings with Members of Parliament in the new administration. "We are hopeful their words will translate into actions, helping us bring our loved ones home," they added.

The families further called on the international community to prioritize the urgent mission of freeing the hostages: "As we near the one-year mark, it’s unbearable to think our family members remain in captivity. They have suffered nearly a year of abuse, starvation, and darkness in Hamas tunnels. Every additional day in captivity could be their last. A deal must be struck to bring them home—those still alive, so they can begin their rehabilitation, and those who were murdered, for a dignified burial."

In a speech today outlining his Middle East vision, Prime Minister Starmer emphasized the need for "an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the return of the hostages, and a recognized Palestinian state alongside a safe and secure Israel." He later made a brief slip, humorously calling for the return of the "sausages" during the same address.

* Arutz 7 contributed to this article.