G7 Leaders Voice Deep Concern over Middle East Escalation
The leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations have expressed “deep concern” over the “deteriorating situation” in the Middle East, calling for restraint from all regional players to avoid an uncontrollable escalation of conflict.
In a statement released on Thursday by 10 Downing Street, the G7 warned that the “dangerous cycle of attacks and retaliation risks fueling uncontrollable escalation in the Middle East, which is in no one’s interest.”
“Therefore, we call on all regional players to act responsibly and with restraint,” the statement emphasized.
The G7 leaders discussed “coordinated efforts and actions” to prevent further escalation, although specific details were not disclosed.
Call for Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza
The statement reiterated the G7’s 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.
Concern over Lebanon’s Escalating Conflict
Addressing the recent escalating conflicts between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, the G7 leaders urged all actors to protect civilian populations. They affirmed their commitment to providing humanitarian assistance to address the urgent needs of civilians in Lebanon.
“We stress the importance of the United Nations in resolving armed conflict and mitigating the humanitarian impact in the Middle East,” the statement said. “We are committed to reinforcing our support to the mission, pursuant to applicable UN resolutions.”
Rising Casualties in Lebanon
On the same day, Lebanese Health Minister Firas Abiad reported that a total of 1,974 people have been killed, including 127 children and 261 women, since the onset of the Hezbollah-Israeli conflict in October last year. The World Health Organization also reported that 28 healthcare workers were killed in the past 24 hours in Lebanon amid escalating hostilities.
The G7 comprises the United States, Britain, Canada, Italy, France, Germany, and Japan.
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G7 voices concern over 'deteriorating situation' in Middle East
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