Tokyo, 8 November, 2023 (GNP): As Israeli troops continue to attack the Gaza Strip, the G7 foreign ministers urged on Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023, for humanitarian pauses in the Israel-Hamas conflict. They also demanded a return to a “broader peace process.”
After a two-day summit in Tokyo, the affluent Group of Seven stated in a united statement that Israel was entitled to self-defense, but they also emphasized the need to respect international humanitarian law and protect people.
By the internationally set boundaries, the G7 countries are dedicated to “preparing sustainable long-term solutions for Gaza and a return to a broader peace process,” according to the statement. “We are in favor of humanitarian pauses and corridors to allow civilian movement, the release of hostages, and desperately needed assistance.”
“A two-state solution… remains the only path to a just, lasting, and secure peace,” was the belief that the ministers held in common.
It was the second joint statement issued by the G7 since the crisis began on October 7 when Hamas reportedly launched an attack on Israel, resulting in the deaths of 1,400 people. However, in what many consider a disproportionate response, Israel’s military initiated a campaign that has since led to the deaths of over 10,000 Palestinian civilians, with more than 40% of the casualties being minors.
“In terms of the responsibility the G7 has toward the international community, I think it’s important that the G7 was able to put out its first unified message as a statement regarding a humanitarian pause,” Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa told reporters.
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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken responded that the statement “very accurately reflects” what was discussed and that there was “real unity” among the G7 when asked if all of the members were in support of humanitarian pauses or if some wanted a complete ceasefire.
Along with condemning North Korea’s missile launches and military shipments to Russia, the communiqué reaffirmed G7 support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia and emphasized the need for dialogue with China.
Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United States make up the G7, and the European Union will also be present at the meeting.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that his country, together with its close ally the United States and other Western nations, would take into consideration “tactical little pauses.” However, Netanyahu has rejected requests for a ceasefire, claiming that such a move would give Hamas time to reorganize.
