The G7 foreign ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union issued a joint statement welcoming the release of some hostages seized on October 7 by Hamas and other terrorist organisations in Israel and Gaza.
They also acknowledged the recent pause in hostilities, enabling increased humanitarian assistance to reach Palestinian civilians in Gaza.
In the statement, the G7 urged the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and called for the facilitated departure of all foreign nationals. Emphasising Israel’s right to defend itself in accordance with international law to prevent a recurrence of the October 7 attacks, the ministers appreciated the leadership of the United States and countries in the region, particularly Qatar and Egypt, for their efforts in securing the pause.
The G7 expressed support for the significant efforts of the United Nations in coordinating humanitarian assistance during the pause. The arrangement is viewed as a crucial step towards bringing the remaining hostages home and addressing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The ministers called on all parties to build on the provisions of the deal, ensure continuous humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, and extend the pause as needed.
Highlighting the importance of protecting civilians and compliance with international law, especially international humanitarian law, the G7 emphasised its commitment to working with all partners in the region to prevent further escalation of the conflict.
The ministers called for the cessation of attacks on civilians and threats to international shipping lanes and vessels, specifically urging the release of the M/V Galaxy Leader and its crew, seized from international waters on November 19.
The G7 reiterated its commitment to a Palestinian state as part of a two-state solution, aiming for a just, lasting, and secure peace for both Israelis and Palestinians.
