Group of 7 Condemns Iran's 'Destabilizing Actions' in the Middle East

Foreign ministers of the Group of 7 countries issued a statement condemning the Islamic Republic's missile attacks on Israel and its 'destabilizing actions' in the Middle East, including those by its proxy groups. The statement, released on Tuesday, December 6, emphasized that 'we reiterate our strong condemnation of Iran's missile attacks against Israel, considering this action a serious threat to regional stability.' The G7 countries added, 'We also condemn the ongoing destabilizing actions of Iran-affiliated militant groups, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, as well as armed militias in Iraq and Syria, and we will continue our efforts to prevent further escalation of conflict in the region.' The foreign ministers stressed the importance of avoiding escalation, stating that a broader conflict in the region would benefit no one and called for restraint from all parties. The statement also highlighted the G7's commitment to 'preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons' and continuing cooperation with other international partners to 'address the escalation of Iran's nuclear tensions.' It stated, 'A diplomatic solution is the best way to resolve this issue. Iran must cease its nuclear activities that have no credible civilian justification, reverse its actions to date, cooperate fully with the International Atomic Energy Agency without further delay, and comply with the legally binding safeguards agreement and its commitments under UN Security Council Resolution 2231.' The G7 foreign ministers also expressed deep concern over human rights violations in Iran, particularly against women, girls, and minority groups. They condemned the 'unacceptable harassment of Iranian citizens' by the Iranian government and called on the leadership of the Islamic Republic to end 'all unjust and arbitrary detentions, including of dual nationals and foreigners.' The statement requested that the Islamic Republic grant access to Iranian prisons for members of the Human Rights Council's fact-finding committee. In another part of the statement, the G7 condemned Iran's transfer of weapons to Russia and announced that they have responded to this action by taking 'new and significant measures.' They urged the Islamic Republic to immediately cease all support for Russia's aggressive war in Ukraine, including the supply of ballistic missiles, drones, and related technologies.