The newly elected British Prime Minister Keir Starmer told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu yesterday, Sunday, that he looks forward to "continuing to deepen the close relationship between the two countries."

Starmer emphasized during a phone call with Netanyahu the "clear and urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza, in addition to the return of the detained and increasing the delivery of humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza," according to a statement reported by the "Times of Israel" from the British Prime Minister's office.

Starmer stated that it is important to "ensure the long-term conditions for a two-state solution, including ensuring that the Palestinian Authority has the financial means to operate effectively."

Starmer and Netanyahu also discussed "regional security in the Middle East."

According to the British Prime Minister's office, Starmer confirmed his commitment to "continuing vital cooperation between the UK and Israel to deter harmful threats."

Starmer described the ongoing fighting between Israel and Hezbollah along the Lebanese border as "very concerning," stressing that it is important for all parties to act with caution, according to the Palestinian agency "Sama."