LONDON — The leaders of G7 countries reiterated their call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the unconditional release of all hostages, a significant and sustained increase in the flow of humanitarian assistance, and an end to the conflict.
“We fully endorse the efforts by the US, Qatar and Egypt to reach such a comprehensive deal, in line with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2735,” the G7 leaders said in a statement published on the UK government website.
The statement said the situation in Gaza is catastrophic, and tens of thousands of innocent lives have been lost.
“We reiterate the absolute need for the civilian population to be protected and that there must be full, rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access, as a matter of absolute priority. We will continue working to set the conditions for a durable peace, leading to a two State solution, where Israel and Palestine coexist side-by-side in peace, with security for both,” the G7 leaders said.
“We are also deeply concerned about the situation in Lebanon. We recall the need for a cessation of hostilities as soon as possible to create space for a diplomatic solution along the Blue Line, consistent with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701,” they added.
“This is the only path to durably de-escalate tensions, stabilize the Israel-Lebanon border, fully restore the sovereignty, territorial integrity and stability of Lebanon, and return displaced citizens to their homes with safety and security on both sides,” they noted.
The G7 leaders urged all actors to protect civilian populations, noting that they are committed to providing humanitarian assistance to address the urgent needs of civilians in Lebanon.
They also underscored the importance of the United Nations in resolving armed conflict and mitigating the humanitarian impact in the Middle East.
“In this regard, we acknowledge the role of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) to restore peace and security. We are committed to reinforce our support to the mission, pursuant to applicable UN resolutions,” they noted.
