Rishi Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer right to avoid point scoring over Israel-Gaza - The Yorkshire Post says

Today’s exchanges in the Commons between Rishi Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer sensibly avoided any points-scoring over the conflict between Israel and Hamas, with both plainly keen to emphasise that their shared aim is to see an end to bloodshed.

That is undoubtedly the right and responsible course of action, but how carefully both the Government and Opposition must tread was illustrated by the disquiet Sir Keir faces from elements of his own party. Shortly after Prime Minister’s Questions, the Labour leader met Muslim MPs unhappy at the tone of some of his comments about the conflict. Added to that is a raft of resignations by Labour councillors over the same issue.

For both Mr Sunak and Sir Keir – and their colleagues - striking the right tone in what they have to say about a conflict that provokes such strong emotions on all sides is unenviably difficult. It is imperative that words are weighed carefully and nothing is said that risks triggering unrest on Britain’s streets or distrust between communities.

Calmness and consensus must be uppermost in the minds of Britain’s political leaders and MPs as maximum diplomatic pressure is brought to bear on the opponents in the conflict in the hope of bringing fighting to an end and averting yet more needless casualties.

The priorities are clear, and have been set out by a coalition of world leaders. The fighting must cease and humanitarian aid allowed to reach those in need. On matters of domestic politics, Mr Sunak and Sir Keir may trade as many insults as they please. But on this issue, they must speak with one voice for peace.