Group calls for day of 'overwhelming anger'; airlines avoid Middle East airspace over fears of Iran retaliation

Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Defence Secretary John Healey have been on a visit to the Middle East - including Lebanon.

As part of this visit, both cabinet ministers have called for de-escalation of tensions on the Blue Line - the demarcation line separating Israel and Lebanon.

Mr Lammy said: "This is a worrying time for people in Lebanon: they have been through a lot in the past five years, including the terrible port explosion that claimed so many lives.

"I'm here on the ground meeting with influential figures to call for immediate de-escalation in the region.

"I've raised my concerns about the ongoing tensions between Lebanon and Israel and have highlighted the UK's determination to avoid miscalculation.

Mr Healey said: "De-escalation must be our primary focus as this region stands at a crossroads. The loss of innocent life in recent weeks and months is unbearable. This has to end.

"All sides must step back from conflict and step up diplomacy. We will work with important partners like Qatar as our government leads a renewed push for peace."

-SKY NEWS