U.K., Canada, and 23 nations demand immediate end to war in Gaza, condemning Israel’s actions
LONDON — In a powerful display of international concern, twenty-five nations, including Britain and Japan, issued a joint call on Monday for an immediate end to the ongoing war in Gaza. This statement marks a significant shift as allies express increasing discontent with Israel’s actions, illuminating the acute crisis affecting civilians in the region. The foreign ministers of countries such as Australia and Canada underscored the dire humanitarian situation, emphasizing the need for urgent action. The ministers condemned the insufficient aid reaching Gaza and the “inhumane killing of civilians,” highlighting that over 800 Palestinians seeking assistance have lost their lives, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry and the United Nations.
The statement criticized the Israeli government’s current humanitarian aid model, describing it as risky and damaging to Gaza’s civilian population. The countries called on Israel to fulfill its international humanitarian obligations. The Israeli Foreign Ministry dismissed the joint statement as “disconnected from reality,” insisting that all accountability should lie with Hamas for its actions in escalating the conflict. The war was ignited on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel, resulting in significant Israeli casualties and hostages.
Meanwhile, Israel’s military campaign has reportedly resulted in over 59,000 Palestinian deaths, a figure the Gaza Health Ministry claims includes a considerable number of women and children. Gaza, with its population exceeding 2 million, is facing a humanitarian disaster, heavily reliant on restricted aid. Many residents have been forcibly displaced multiple times. Despite this, Israel maintains that enough aid is supplied and blames Hamas for misappropriating resources.
The recent joint statement advocates for an immediate ceasefire, indicating that these nations are willing to explore political solutions to foster peace in the region. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized that a military resolution is unattainable and called for a lasting ceasefire, expressing gratitude for the diplomatic efforts of the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt.