Prince William issued a statement about Israel and Hamas. It reads:
“I remain deeply concerned about the terrible human cost of the conflict in the Middle East since the Hamas terrorist attack on 7 October. Too many have been killed. I, like so many others, want to see an end to the fighting as soon as possible. There is a desperate need for increased humanitarian support to Gaza. It’s critical that aid gets in and the hostages are released. Sometimes it is only when faced with the sheer scale of human suffering that the importance of permanent peace is brought home.”
“Even in the darkest hour, we must not succumb to the counsel of despair. I continue to cling to the hope that a brighter future can be found and I refuse to give up on that.”
As Prince William arrived at the British Red Cross headquarters, he was briefed on the humanitarian efforts being made in the Gaza region. During his visit, he participated in a video call with teams on the ground who are actively involved in the humanitarian response efforts in Gaza.In a forthcoming event, the Prince is scheduled to engage in a dialogue at a synagogue with young individuals from various communities. These young advocates are actively working against hatred and antisemitism. Specific details about this upcoming engagement are currently withheld from the public.
Royal expert Ingrid Seward explains it was a "most unusual" statement, telling the Mirror: "William obviously feels passionate about the effects of the Israeli-Hamas conflict. Although this is not the first time he has spoken out with such feeling, it is his strongest declaration yet.
"Last October Kensington Palace released a carefully worded statement on behalf of both the Prince and Princess of Wales, expressing their distress at the horrific events. Since then, William has been following events on a daily basis and seen the horrors that many innocent young families on both sides of the conflict have had to endure.
"But by dint of his position as Prince of Wales, William cannot make his political views public. But he can make subtle hints as to exactly how strongly he feels. Releasing such a pointedly worded statement today is most unusual and illustrates just how desperate William feels.
"It certainly reminds us William is a force to be reckoned with. He refuses to hide behind the mantle of his royalty. There are things he wants to do and needs to say."
A spokesperson for the Prime Minister said William’s statement ”is consistent with the Government position, and we welcome that intervention. It is important that we speak with one voice as a nation."