Updated 02.55 | Published 02.22
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The leaders of the US, France, UK, Germany, Canada and Italy are calling for the protection of civilians while supporting Israel’s right to defend itself in the war with Hamas. This is according to a statement on the White House’s website.
The leaders, including US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron, after the conversation they have had with each other, call for compliance with international humanitarian law, according to the statement.
They welcome the release of two people who had been taken hostage by terrorist-branded Hamas in the October 7 attack on Israel and demand the immediate release of the hundreds more held captive.
The leaders emphasize that they must coordinate support for their citizens in the region, especially those who want to leave Gaza.
They welcome the arrival of the first humanitarian convoys in Gaza and commit “to ensuring sustainable and safe access to food, water, medical care and other assistance necessary to meet humanitarian needs,” according to the White House.
The countries are continuing diplomatic efforts to prevent the conflict from spreading, to preserve stability in the Middle East and to work for a “political solution and lasting peace”, the White House writes about the conversation.