By Ahmet Gencturk
ATHENS (AA) – The G7 nations on Friday stressed that Israel must comply with international law and treat Palestinians humanely.
“Israel must act in compliance with its obligations under international law and treat individuals humanely and with dignity and should thoroughly and transparently investigate credible allegations of wrongdoing and ensure accountability for any abuses or violations,’ said the G7 foreign ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK and the US, plus the EU foreign policy chief, in a joint statement.
Reiterating their opposition to a full-scale Israeli military operation in Rafah, southern Gaza, which they said would have catastrophic consequences for the civilian population, they repeated the call for a credible plan to protect the civilian population in Gaza and address their humanitarian needs.
“We are deeply concerned by the internal displacement within Gaza and the risk of forcible displacement from Gaza,” they added.
Underlining their commitment to a lasting and sustainable peace based on a two-state solution and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, they said: “We note that the recognition of a Palestinian state, at the appropriate time, would be a crucial component of that political process.”
On Iran, the statement reiterated their condemnation of Iran for its attack on Israel last weekend and called on it to refrain from providing support to Hamas and taking further actions, which they said would destabilize the wider region.
On Israel’s attack on Iran early this morning, the statement said: “In light of reports of strikes on April 19th, we urge all parties to work to prevent further escalation.
Also expressing concern over reports that Iran is considering transferring ballistic missiles and related technology to Russia, it said: “Were Iran to proceed with providing ballistic missiles or related technology to Russia, we are prepared to respond in a swift and coordinated manner, including with new and significant measures against Iran.”
On support for Ukraine, as it faces a continued Russian war, the statement said: “We express our resolve in particular to bolster Ukraine’s air defense capabilities to save lives and protect critical infrastructure. We will also work with partners towards this end. In this context we appreciate the Immediate Action for Air Defense Initiative (IAAD) proposed by Germany.”
“We are stepping up our defense and security assistance to Ukraine and are increasing our production and delivery capabilities to assist the country,” it also said.