The Italian government has been one of Israel's most vocal supporters within Europe, but unease is building over the devastation being wrought on Gaza.

Sánchez announced that Spain will reportedly submit two proposals to the UN General Assembly.

The statement said that expanded operations would cross a red line and would affect "any prospects of a viable two-state solution."

This is the first time he has said this to Arab leaders in a formal setting, notably while in Qatar, which has played a major role in mediating the Gaza deal.

British counter-terrorism police arrested eight men including seven Iranians earlier this month in two separate operations.

Tehran would continue Iran-US nuclear talks but is not afraid of threats. "We are not seeking war," he said.

Strikes attributed to Israel were also reported in the Yarin area near Tyre.

Among the Israeli officials included the IDF Operations Directorate chief Maj.-Gen. Oded Basyuk.