G7 ministers unified in call for humanitarian pause to Gaza conflict, Japan says

G7 foreign ministers, including representatives from the European Union, Britain, Germany, the United States, Japan, and Canada, issued a joint statement on the Israel-Hamas war during a two-day meeting in Tokyo. The statement called for a humanitarian pause in the fighting and emphasized the importance of a peace process. While Israel’s right to defend itself was acknowledged, the protection of civilians and compliance with international humanitarian law were also highlighted. This was only the second joint statement from the G7 since the conflict began with an attack by Hamas on southern Israel. The Israeli bombardment of Gaza has resulted in the deaths of over 10,000 Palestinians, including many children. Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa expressed the significance of the G7’s unified message and its responsibility towards the international community. The statement emphasized the need for a two-state solution as the only path to a just and lasting peace. Additionally, the G7 reiterated its support for Ukraine, called for engagement with China, and condemned North Korea’s missile tests and arms transfers to Russia. The G7, consisting of Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United States, and the European Union, has faced challenges in reaching a united approach to the war, raising questions about its effectiveness in addressing major crises. Long-term plans for the Gaza conflict were also discussed, including revitalizing peace efforts in the Middle East. Israel’s intentions for Gaza remain unclear, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggesting an indefinite period of security responsibility, while Foreign Minister Eli Cohen proposed international coalition or Gaza political leadership administration. Various options are being considered by diplomats worldwide, such as the deployment of a multinational force, an interim Palestinian-led administration, involvement of neighboring Arab states, and temporary U.N. supervision of the territory. Following the Tokyo meeting, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will visit South Korea to strengthen the Washington-Seoul alliance and address concerns about North Korea’s military ties with Russia.