The UK Government has strongly condemned Hamas's intolerable firing of rockets into Israel and its policy of deliberate targeting of civilians.
No democratic country could accept such a clear threat to the security of its citizens.
I know the Government therefore recognises Israel's right to take proportionate action to defend itself. In doing so, Israel must exercise restraint and to do everything in its power to avoid civilian casualties.
This conflict has taken a terrible toll. There must be meaningful investigations into possible violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law by all sides, including those abuses committed by Hamas and other militant groups.
I can assure you that the Government's policy on Hamas has not changed and is clear: Hamas must renounce violence, recognise Israel and accept previously signed agreements.
Hamas must make credible movement towards these conditions, which remain the benchmark against which its intentions should be judged.