LONDON: The UK government on Tuesday strongly condemned Israel over its latest military offensive in Gaza, as the Israel Defense Forces began a ground assault on Gaza City.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper described the action as “reckless and appalling,” warning that it would escalate bloodshed and endanger civilians.

In a posting on X, Cooper said: “The new IDF assault on Gaza is utterly reckless and appalling. It will only bring more bloodshed, kill more innocent civilians and endanger the remaining hostages. We need an immediate ceasefire, all hostages released, unrestricted humanitarian aid and a path to lasting peace.”

The new IDF assault on Gaza is utterly reckless and appalling.

It will only bring more bloodshed, kill more innocent civilians & endanger the remaining hostages.