In a written statement, the G7 leaders expressed their deep concern over the latest developments in the Middle East and condemned in the strongest terms Iran’s attack on Israel, which they “consider seriously threatening the stability of the region”.
The leaders of the Group of Seven, the world’s most powerful economies, reiterated their support for Israel’s security and added that “Iran’s deeply destabilizing operations across the Middle East through armed organizations with which it is affiliated – including the Houthis, the Hezbollah and Hamas – as well as militant groups in Iraq aligned with Iran – must be stopped.”
The leaders of the seven most industrialized countries of the West add that during their summit held by video conference yesterday, they discussed moves and coordinated efforts aimed at preventing the escalation of tension in the region.
In their written announcement, at the same time, all parties involved are asked to make constructive efforts with the aim of reducing the tension and reference is made to the need to respect international and humanitarian law.
The G7 countries, “on the eve of the tragic anniversary of the attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, condemn once again, in the most decisive manner, these acts of unjustified and deliberate violence and stand with the families of the victims and hostages which are in the hands of Hamas”.
They are calling for a ceasefire in Gaza
The seven leaders are calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, the unconditional release of all hostages, a substantial increase in humanitarian aid flows and an end to the armed conflict. They also support the efforts of the United States, Egypt and Qatar towards a comprehensive solution, as provided for in UN Security Council Resolution 2735.
“The situation in Gaza is tragic, tens of thousands of innocent lives have been lost. We reiterate that there is an absolute need for the civilian population to be protected and immediate, fast, safe and unhindered access to humanitarian aid, which is a matter of absolute priority. We will continue to work to create the conditions for a lasting peace, which will lead to a two-state solution, whereby Israel and Palestine can coexist, side by side, in peace and security both,” the statement says.
Concern about the situation in Lebanon
In relation to the situation in Lebanon, the G7 express their deep concern and underline that “hostilities must stop as soon as possible so that there is room for a diplomatic solution along the blue line, respecting Security Council Resolution 1701 of the UN”.
According to the G7 leaders, “this is the only path to a lasting reduction in tension, the stabilization of the Israel-Lebanese border, the restoration of Lebanon’s full territorial integrity, sovereignty and stability, and the return home of citizens who they were forced to leave them, with conditions of safety and protection from both sides”.
An appeal is addressed, to all sides, in favor of the protection of the civilian population. G7 leaders pledge to provide humanitarian aid and respond to the urgent needs of Lebanese citizens.
The statement expresses its sincere condolences to the families of the victims among the civilian population in Israel, Gaza and Lebanon and finally adds:
“We underline the importance of the United Nations in resolving armed conflicts and limiting the humanitarian impact in the Middle East. We recognize in this regard the role of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon, UNIFIL, in restoring peace and security. We are committed to strengthening our support for the mission, as provided for in the relevant UN resolutions.”
#situation #tragic #announcement #leaders #developments #Middle #East
