Britain urges for de-escalation of violence in Israel, Gaza

London, July 9 (IANS) British government Tuesday appealed for de-escalation of violence in southern Israel and Gaza, urging all sides to show restraint.

I am deeply concerned by the recent escalation of violence in Gaza and southern Israel. I condemn the firing of rockets into Israel by Gaza-based militants," Xinhua quoted Foreign Secretary William Hague as saying.

"The UK calls on Hamas and other militant groups to stop these attacks. The people of Israel have the right to live without constant fear for their security; the people of Gaza also have the right to live in peace."

Violence between Israel and militants in Gaza has escalated in recent weeks as hundreds of projectiles were fired into Israel. In response, Israel carried out dozens of air strikes at military sites Tuesday and launched a military operation.