Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz both repeated calls for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas at a joint press conference in Berlin.

Starmer’s visit to the German capital is the first leg of a European tour looking to reset relations and strengthen ties on migration, defence and economic growth with the continent. He is set to meet French President Emmanual Macron later this week.

The Prime Minister said he and the German Chancellor both agreed on “Israel’s right to self-defense, in compliance with International Humanitarian Law, the need for de-escalation across the region; and for restraint and caution to be exercised.

“Unfettered humanitarian access into Gaza, agreement to a ceasefire and release of all hostages and the importance of working together towards a political solution based on the creation of a Palestinian State alongside a safe and secure Israel.”

Which he claimed was “The only way to provide long-term peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians. That of course – is not an easy goal.

“But it is one that we are committed to pursuing, together.”

Olaf Scholz told the press: “we are deeply worried about the situation in the Middle East and the escalation in the region, the immense human suffering, which we have observed for months is growing, as is the risk of a regional conflict.”

“We call on all parties involved to continue negotiations on a ceasefire and the freeing of hostages. The catastrophic situation in Gaza and lack of protection for civilians and humanitarian aid workers is something that deeply worries me. Israel needs to do more.”

Starmer’s visit to Berlin is the first leg of his European tour looking to reset relations and strengthen ties on migration, defense and economic growth and to “turn a corner on Brexit”.

He is also set to attend the Paralympic opening ceremony in Paris later tonight and meet with French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday morning.