"I am in Israel, a nation in grief. I grieve with you and stand with you against the evil that is terrorism. Today, and always," Sunak wrote on X as he landed in Tel Aviv

The British Indian leader's visit to Israel follows that of US President Joe Biden as world leaders step up efforts to prevent the conflict with Hamas from spilling into the wider region following the unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7 by Hamas militants in Gaza

While in Israel, Sunak will meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog to offer his condolences for the civilians killed in the conflict before embarking on a visit to other major capitals in the Middle East for further talks

"Above all, I'm here to express my solidarity with the Israeli people. You have suffered an unspeakable, horrific act of terrorism and I want you to know that the United Kingdom and I stand with you," he told reporters on his arrival in Israel

In an earlier statement, the British Prime Minister said the Tuesday attack on the Al Ahli hospital in Gaza should be a 'watershed moment' for the world. Pic/Benjamin Netanyahu/X

Sunak's visit comes as other European leaders also undertake similar tours of the Middle East in a show of Western unity. Pic/Videograb/Benjamin Netanyahu's X account

"The attack on Al Ahli Hospital should be a watershed moment for leaders in the region and across the world to come together to avoid further dangerous escalation of conflict. I will ensure the UK is at the forefront of this effort," Sunak said. Pic/Videograb/Benjamin Netanyahu's X account

"The attack on Al Ahli Hospital should be a watershed moment for leaders in the region and across the world to come together to avoid further dangerous escalation of conflict. I will ensure the UK is at the forefront of this effort," he said. Pic/Videograb/Benjamin Netanyahu's X account