The document was signed by the United States, Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom, Germany, France and Italy, after a telephone conference called by the head of government of that last country, Giorgia Meloni, indicates a statement released here this Thursday, on its official site, by the Presidency of the Council of Ministers.
In it, the leaders of those nations ignore referring directly to the attacks against the Gaza Strip and Lebanon by Israel, while reiterating “unequivocally” the commitment to the security of that country and condemning “in the strongest terms” the direct military attack by Iran against its territory.
The document notes that “a dangerous cycle of attacks and reprisals risks fueling an uncontrollable escalation in the Middle East, which is in no one’s interest,” and therefore calls on all regional actors to take responsible and restrained action.
They reiterate the call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the unconditional release of all hostages, a significant and lasting increase in the flow of humanitarian assistance, as well as an end to the conflict, and in this regard highlight “the efforts of the United States, Qatar and Egypt to reach a comprehensive agreement.”
They acknowledge that the situation in Gaza is catastrophic, with the deaths of tens of thousands of innocent people, but without mentioning the Israeli bombings that caused them, and point out “the absolute need for the civilian population to be protected and to have access to comprehensive, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian relief.”
They say they will continue to work to create the conditions for a lasting peace, leading to a two-state solution, in which Israel and Palestine coexist in peace, with security for both.
Regarding the situation in Lebanon, the G7 leaders recall the “need for a cessation of hostilities as soon as possible to create space for a diplomatic solution along the Blue Line, in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701.”
They point out that this is the only way to “permanently ease tensions, stabilize the border between Israel and Lebanon, fully restore Lebanon’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and stability, and return displaced citizens to their homes with safety and security on both sides.”
They urge all actors to protect the people, as well as to provide humanitarian assistance to respond to the urgent needs of civilians in Lebanon.
Finally, they highlight the importance of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil) in restoring peace and security, and reaffirm their commitment to strengthen support for this mission.
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