The G7 countries ‘foreign ministers—Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union—have emphasized their shared position on the changing situation in Israel and Gaza in a joint statement released on November 28, 2023.
On October 7, Hamas and other terrorist groups took hostages; their release has received approval. The recent lull in hostilities, which allowed more humanitarian aid to reach Gaza’s Palestinian civilians, is acknowledged by the G7 foreign ministers. The ministers emphasize Israel’s right to defend itself in accordance with international law and call for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.
The G7 supports the UN’s coordination of humanitarian assistance during the current pause, praising the leadership of the US, Qatar, Egypt, and other regional nations. To ensure continued humanitarian aid delivery, covering basic needs like food, water, fuel, and medical supplies, the foreign ministers urge all parties to expand upon the current arrangements. They pledge to support any additional pause extensions that are required in order to facilitate more assistance and the freeing of all hostages.
The G7 emphasizes how crucial it is to safeguard civilian rights and uphold international law, particularly humanitarian law. The ministers reiterate their commitment to working together with regional partners to stop the conflict from getting worse. They urge all parties to refrain from endangering or interfering with legitimate navigational rights while emphasizing the importance of maritime security.
The M/V Galaxy Leader and its crew were released from international waters on November 19 after the G7 foreign ministers issued a notable statement urging the Houthis to stop attacking civilians, posing threats to international shipping lanes, and releasing them.
The G7 countries continue to be steadfast in their pursuit of a fair, long-lasting, and secure peace for both Israelis and Palestinians while upholding their commitment to the two-state solution.
