G7 Urges Parties to Prevent Further Middle East Escalation
The G7 foreign ministers have called on “all parties” to take action to prevent further escalation in the Middle East. This comes after reports of revenge strikes by Israel on Iran. In a statement, the G7, which includes Italy, the U.K., U.S., France, Germany, Japan, and Canada, expressed their concern and urged all parties to work towards de-escalation.
G7 Demands Iran and Affiliated Groups Cease Attacks
The G7 foreign ministers also demanded that Iran and its affiliated groups cease their attacks. They emphasized that the Iranian government would be held accountable for its actions, which they described as malicious and destabilizing. The G7 stated that they are ready to adopt further sanctions or take other measures to respond to any further destabilizing initiatives.
G7 Opposes Full-Scale Military Operation in Rafah
The G7 foreign ministers expressed their opposition to a full-scale military operation in Rafah by Israel, citing the catastrophic consequences it would have on the civilian population. They condemned the unacceptable number of civilians killed in Gaza during Israel’s military offensive and reiterated their stance against a large-scale operation in Rafah.
The G7 ministers deplored the loss of civilian lives and expressed great concern over the thousands of women, children, and vulnerable individuals who have been killed in Gaza. They acknowledged the suffering of the 2.4 million people living under Israeli siege and the destruction caused by the ongoing war.
The war in Gaza began after Hamas launched an attack on October 7, resulting in the deaths of 1,170 people in southern Israel, mostly civilians. In response, Israel launched a retaliatory offensive, resulting in the deaths of at least 33,970 people in Gaza, mostly women and children.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, who holds the G7 rotating presidency, emphasized the importance of de-escalation and called on all parties to work towards avoiding any further escalation. The G7 aims to send a clear message that their political goal is to de-escalate the situation in the Middle East.
The G7 foreign ministers stand united in their efforts to prevent further escalation and hold all parties accountable for their actions. They are prepared to take additional measures, including sanctions, to address any destabilizing initiatives. The focus remains on protecting civilian lives and working towards a peaceful resolution in the region.
