World leaders have welcomed the release of two hostages and called for immediate release of remaining hostages while committed to close coordination in supporting nationals in the region, particularly those wishing to leave Gaza.
In a joint statement released by Joe Biden of United States, Trudeau of Canada, Emmanuel Macron of France, Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany, Giorgia Meloni of Italy, and Rishi Sunak of the United Kingdom spoke regarding the ongoing conflict between Israel and the terrorist organisation Hamas.
Israel declared war on the Palestinian militant group Hamas after it carried out an unprecedented attack by air, sea and land on Saturday, October 07, 2023.
The large-scale surprise assault has left at least 900 dead in Israel, prompting a lethal volley of retaliatory Israeli airstrikes on Gaza that killed at least 687 people.
As they retreated into Gaza, the militants claimed to have taken at least 100 hostages with them and have threatened to kill them if airstrikes target Gaza without warning. Israel has pledged that Hamas will pay a heavy price.
These World leaders reiterated their support for Israel and its right to defend itself against terrorism and called for adherence to international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians.
The leaders welcomed the announcement of the first humanitarian convoys to reach Palestinians in need in Gaza and committed to continue coordinating with partners in the region to ensure sustained and safe access to food, water, medical care, and other assistance required to meet humanitarian needs.
While committed to 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.
Meanwhile, report has it that the US government has pressed Israel to delay imminent ground operation Gaza to allow for the release of more Hamas hostages and aid into Gaza, according to two sources briefed on the discussions.
The Friday release of two Americans held by Hamas signaled possibility of freeing more of the around 200 people believed to be kidnapped by the militant group after its deadly attacks two week ago
The conflict that started with Hamas’ deadly attacks on Israel, officials says killed 1,400 people, has already had broad ramifications in Middle East, and triggered diplomatic rifts and protests around the world.