James Cleverly backs ‘humanitarian pause’ instead of ceasefire as IDF troops reach ‘heart of Gaza City’

The Foreign Secretary has backed a “humanitarian pause” rather than a ceasefire in Gaza, as Israeli troops have reached “the heart of Gaza City”.

James Cleverly suggested a ceasefire could hamper Israel’s ability to defend itself.

Meanwhile, Labour frontbencher Imran Hussain, MP for Bradford East, resigned from his shadow role to “strongly advocate for a ceasefire” between Israel and Hamas, adding to pressure on Sir Keir Starmer over his position on the conflict.

It comes as Israel’s defence minister Yoav Gallant said Israel Defence Force (IDF) troops have “stormed” Gaza City from the north and south with land, air and sea troops.

Earlier, the World Health Organization (WHO) said an average of 160 children are being killed each day in Gaza, based on figures from the Palestinian health ministry.

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