TEHRAN – Iran’s embassy in London has strongly criticized the UK government for the double standard in its approach to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

The embassy accused the UK of supporting a ceasefire in the Gaza war while ignoring the rising number of Palestinian casualties due to Israeli military actions.

In a statement posted on X on Monday, the embassy highlighted recent remarks by UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, arguing that they demonstrate London's unwavering support for Israel.

The embassy condemned the UK for urging regional countries to avoid escalating the conflict, while simultaneously failing to address the increasing deaths of Palestinians, including women and children, as a result of Israeli brutality.

The statement also pointed to the UK’s endorsement of a ceasefire in Gaza, criticizing it as an empty gesture given the UK's lack of concern for the thousands of Palestinian lives lost in the conflict. The embassy suggested that the UK’s call for restraint and ceasefire comes too late for many Palestinian civilians who have already been killed.

Earlier in the day, Foreign Secretary Lammy had a phone conversation with Israeli Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer, during which he reiterated the UK's support for Israel's security.

Lammy stressed the importance of restraint from all parties, the establishment of a ceasefire in Gaza, and the release of hostages. However, the Iranian embassy noted that Lammy did not address the ongoing violence against Palestinian civilians, instead focusing solely on preventing further regional escalation.

The Gaza conflict has already resulted in the deaths of over 40,435 Palestinians, primarily women and children, since October 2023. A ministry statement added that some 93,534 other people have been injured in the assault.

After 10 months of war, 90 percent of Gaza’s population has been forced out of their homes with most having to relocate multiple times. They face a lack of safety, sanitation and adequate food with some even forced to shelter in cemeteries.

Repeated attempts at negotiations have so far failed to secure a ceasefire in the relentless Israeli assault on Gaza.