G7 Foreign Ministers Welcome Ceasefire; All Hostages Should Be Released Unconditionally

On Tuesday, the foreign ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the High Representative of the European Union issued a statement welcoming the release of some hostages held by Hamas and emphasized the need for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. In their statement, the G7 foreign ministers expressed satisfaction with the recent halt in fighting and the increase in humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians in Gaza, reaffirming Israel's right to defend itself and its people in accordance with international law to prevent a recurrence of the October 7 attacks. They called for the easy exit of all foreign nationals from Gaza. The ministers also appreciated the leadership of the United States and regional countries, particularly Qatar and Egypt, for their tireless efforts to ensure this ceasefire and future pauses, and supported the 'significant' efforts of the United Nations to coordinate the delivery of humanitarian aid during this pause. According to them, this halt in fighting is an important step towards bringing all remaining hostages home and addressing the full scope of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and every effort must be made to ensure humanitarian support for civilians, including food, water, fuel, and medical supplies. The G7 foreign ministers further emphasized the importance of protecting civilians and adhering to international law, particularly human rights, and reiterated their commitment to working with all partners in the region to prevent further escalation of conflicts. They called on all parties to respect maritime laws and freedoms by all vessels and not to threaten or interfere with this right. The G7 foreign ministers specifically urged the Houthis in Yemen to immediately cease attacks against civilians and threats against shipping lines and international commercial vessels, and to release the seized ship and its crew without delay. The ministers reiterated their commitment to the establishment of a Palestinian state as part of a two-state solution so that both Israelis and Palestinians can live in just, sustainable, and secure peace. Chuck Schumer welcomed the pause in the Israel-Hamas war; Republicans called for action against Iranian proxies. International efforts continue to transform the humanitarian pause into a lasting ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. It is the fourth day of the humanitarian pause; there is joy over the return of hostages and an opportunity for aid. International efforts are underway to extend the humanitarian pause in the Israel-Hamas war. More than 25 tons of aid have been sent by the U.S. for the residents of Gaza; aid continues. Live blog: G7 foreign ministers welcome the cessation of hostilities; all hostages should be released unconditionally. The Qatari representative at the United Nations called for a lasting ceasefire in Gaza. Joe Biden welcomed the extension of the ceasefire in Gaza.