London/IBNS: British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday afternoon during which both leaders discussed the need to "de-escalate" tensions and the importance of protecting innocent civilians in the Israel-Gaza conflict, Downing Street said.

The phone call centered around the situation in the Middle East but also covered bilateral ties and the progress being made towards an "ambitious" deal in the ongoing India-UK free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations.

In a tweet, PM Modi said: "Earlier this evening, spoke to UK PM@RishiSunak. Discussed means to strengthen bilateral relations and exchanged views on the situation in West Asia. We agree that there is no place for terror and violence. Death of civilians is a serious concern. Need to work towards regional peace, security, stability and continued humanitarian assistance."

"The leaders discussed the deeply distressing situation in the Middle East and condemned Hamas's attacks on Israel," said a Downing Street spokesperson in a readout of the call.

"They reiterated that Hamas did not represent the Palestinian people and reflected on the need to de-escalate tensions in the wider region. The Prime Minister (Sunak) also underscored the importance of protecting innocent civilians in Gaza and ensuring aid was able to flow into the country," the spokesperson said.

"Turning to the friendship between the UK and India, the leaders discussed recent progress on free trade agreement negotiations. They agreed on the importance of securing an ambitious deal that benefitted both sides," the spokesperson said.

Cricket fan Sunak also congratulated PM Modi on team India's winning streak in the World Cup and expressed the hope that England would have better luck in their Test series against India, scheduled for the New Year.