Joint statement reiterates support for Israel’s ‘right to defend itself against terrorism,’ calls for release of all captives
US President Joe Biden, and the leaders of Canada, France, Germany, Italy and the UK on Monday called for “protection of civilians and adherence to international law” as Israel continues its bombardment of the Gaza Strip since the Oct. 7 Hamas offensive.
According to a statement released by the White House, the leaders held a virtual conference in which they also reiterated that they support Israel’s “right to defend itself against terrorism.”
Expressing satisfaction with the release of the two US captives, the leaders said they wanted all the captives to be released.
They resolved to coordinate closely to support their citizens in the region, especially those who want to leave Gaza.
The Western heads of state and government expressed their “satisfaction” with the humanitarian aid convoys reaching Palestinians in need in Gaza, saying that “we will continue to work in cooperation with partners in the region to meet needs such as food, water and medical aid.”
The leaders said they will continue “close diplomatic coordination, including with key partners in the region, to prevent the conflict from spreading, preserve stability in the Middle East, and work toward a political solution and durable peace.”
Israeli air raids and blockade of Gaza has killed 4,651 Palestinians and left residents with little food, water, fuel and medical supplies.
More than 1,400 people have been killed in Israel.
A second convoy of relief trucks reached the Gaza Strip on Sunday, a day after 20 trucks crossed into the area – the first aid shipment since Israel imposed a complete siege. Both shipments entered from Egypt through the Rafah crossing, the sole route into Gaza not controlled by Israel.
