Trudeau, Biden discuss latest developments in Gaza

By Zeynep Katre Oran

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and US President Joe Biden have discussed the latest developments in Gaza amid Israel's continuing attacks on the besieged enclave.

According to a statement made by the office of Trudeau, who was in Washington to attend an Americas Partnership for Economic Prosperity (APEP) summit, he met with Biden late Friday on the margins of the summit.

During their meeting, the leaders discussed the latest developments in the region amid Israel's attacks on the illegally blockaded Gaza Strip and stressed that they support "Israel's right to defend itself in accordance with international law."

The duo reaffirmed the importance of complying with international humanitarian law and protecting civilians, and expressed their deep concern about the humanitarian crisis in the region.

Stating that they will continue their efforts to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches civilians in Gaza, the two also discussed common priorities such as combating climate change and a sustainable economy.

This week the Israeli army expanded its air and ground attacks on the Gaza Strip, which has been under relentless airstrikes since a surprise offensive by the Palestinian group Hamas on Oct. 7.

Nearly 10,800 people have been killed in the conflict, including at least 9,227 Palestinians and nearly 1,540 Israelis.

Basic supplies are running low for Gaza’s 2.3 million residents due to the Israeli siege, in addition to the large numbers of casualties and displacements.