Unions issue call for peace

The TUC condemned the attacks and murder of Israeli civilians by Hamas and called for the immediate, unconditional release of all hostages unharmed.

Expressing deep concern about the escalating violence and unfolding humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Israel, it supported the UN call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the Middle East. It also urged the international community to make all efforts to ensure international law is upheld and civilians protected.

The UNISON public services union said Israel had been “devastated by a brutal and heinous attack”, while Gaza “is being subjected to an intensification of the 16-year blockade, with access to water, electricity, medication and food being denied by the Israeli government”.

It urged Hamas and the Israeli government to respect international law.

The PCS public and commercial services union condemned Hamas’ actions, but said it was “appalled at the UK government’s tacit approval” for the collective punishment of people in Gaza.

It added: “There will not be peace in the Middle East until there is a political settlement that includes a free and independent Palestine and an end to the occupation.”

The UCU university and college union condemned instances of antisemitism and Islamaphobia, witnessed since the violence unfolded.

It called on the British government and international community to collectively call for an immediate ceasefire and de-escalation.