Muslim and Jewish leaders in the UK have called for followers of both faiths to "export peace" to Gaza and stamp out racism.

The Muslim Council of Britain and the Board of Deputies of British Jews issued a joint statement today, after Israel and Hamas agreed an open-ended truce.

Both sides have claimed victory following the recent conflict, which claimed the lives of 2,143 Palestinians, mostly civilians, as well 70 Israelis, all but six soldiers.

The MCB and the BoD said they condemned the civilian casualties and hoped for "lasting peace", while also stating Muslims and Jews should "get to know one another".

Their statement said: "There is no doubt that Muslims and Jews have deeply held views about the conflict in Israel and Palestine. We acknowledge that our communities may disagree about the origins, current reasons and solutions to end the conflict. But there are also points of agreement.

"The death of every civilian is a tragedy, and every effort should be taken to minimise such losses. The targeting of civilians is completely unacceptable and against our religious traditions. We pray for a speedy end to the current conflict and for a lasting peace for all.

"In spite of the situation in the Middle East, we must continue to work hard for good community relations in the UK. We must not import conflict. We must export peace instead."

Earlier this month the Community Security Trust, which records hate crime against Jews in the UK, said anti-Semitic attacks rose to their highest level in five years after the conflict in Gaza had begun, and both bodies urged an end to racism of all forms.

The statement said: "Whilst everyone has the right to voice their political opinion, be that in a rally or on social media, we must be mindful of how we convey our protest. There can be no excuse for racism, violence, or other forms of intimidation, when expressing views in the media, on the streets, outside shops or online.

"We condemn any expression of Islamophobia, anti-Semitism or any form of racism. We call for Muslim and Jewish communities to redouble efforts to work together and get to know one another.

"We need constructive dialogue to limit our disagreements and identify the widest possible range of areas for cooperation. There are more issues that unite us than divide us."