HUNDREDS of people gathered in Worcester city centre to call for a ceasefire in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Palestinian flags were in full force outside of Worcester's Guildhall today as members of the public and local politicians gathered to protest between 1.45pm and 3pm.

The protest comes amid growing concern over the ongoing conflict in Israel and the Gaza Strip.

The crowds could be heard chanting "Free Palestine" and many attendees were holding placards and homemade signs.

Cllr Jabba Riaz, Worcester City Councillor for Cathedral Ward and former Mayor of Worcester, was in attendance at the event today alongside other local politicians.

He said: "This is a small peaceful gathering to recognise the plight of the Palestinian people and what is going on in the Gaza strip at this very moment.

"This event is to recognise the loss of life on both sides and our heart goes out to the families, the mothers, the fathers and the siblings of those who have lost loved ones.

"It is not a war against Hamas, it is a war against the Palestinian people. We are calling out genocide for what it is, and everyone here is in solidarity with that message.

"We are appealing for a complete ceasefire."

Cllr Allah Ditta, Worcestershire County Councillor for Nunnery and former Mayor of Worcester, was also in attendance at today's event.

He said: "The message here is to call for a ceasefire, whatever side you are on, a ceasefire is needed.

"I am here to give my support today."

Other local politicians like Cllr Katie Collier, Cllr Hannah Cooper and Cllr Andrew Cross were all in attendance at the event.

There was also an increased police presence in the city centre today, with more officers seen around the High Street.

More than 9,000 people are believed to have been killed in the Gaza Strip since October 7, when Israel launched its military response after atrocities committed by Hamas when an estimated 1,400 people were killed in Israel and hundreds taken hostage.

Nearly 100 British citizens are expected to be able to leave Gaza for Egypt today (Friday).

The latest list published by the authority included 92 people described as British citizens, out of a total of 127 people named under the UK section of the list.

It comes amid major diplomatic efforts to secure foreign nationals safe passage out of the war-torn region and into Egypt through the Rafah crossing.

Around 200 Britons in Gaza have so far registered with the authorities, and along with their dependents the total number the UK is trying to secure passage for is thought to be in the low hundreds.