WARRINGTON councillors have called for a 'humanitarian pause' during the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict.

Leader of Warrington Borough Council, Cllr Hans Mundry, told the Warrington Guardian he believes that 'leaders in the region must come together' to find a solution to the ongoing conflict.

The council leader met with other members of the council, including Cllr Mo Hussain and Cllr Sagheer Zaman, to discuss the council's position.

Cllr Mundry said: “This week, I met with Councillor Mo Hussain and Councillor Sagheer Zaman regarding the conflict and humanitarian crisis in Gaza. 

“I continue my calls for cessation of hostilities in Gaza, to not only alleviate the suffering of Palestinian civilians but to ensure they get the food, water, electricity, medicine and fuel they need. 

“Leaders in the region must come together in open dialogue to find a long-term solution for peace and a permanent ceasefire."

Cllr Hussain said: "I’m thankful to the new leader of Warrington Borough Council for agreeing to meet with both myself and Councillor Zaman regarding the conflict in Gaza. 

“Labour has been clear, Israel must not besiege or blockade Gaza, they must comply with international law and protect civilian lives. 

“This means they must ensure enough aid is reaching Palestinian civilians to end the humanitarian crisis and suffering.

“We of course all want an end to the violence, lasting peace and a permanent ceasefire.”

Meanwhile, Cllr Zaman added: "I want to thank Cllr Mundry for agreeing to meet Cllr Hussain and I to discuss the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

“We are calling for a further humanitarian pause, further political progress to end the conflict and a permanent ceasefire.

“In government, Labour will work with international partners to recognise the state of Palestine alongside the state of Israel, we are committed to a peaceful two-state solution.”