Washington: The leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) on Tuesday voiced their support for a comprehensive deal proposed by US President Joe Biden to end the Gaza conflict and called on Hamas to accept the terms. They also urged countries with influence over Hamas to ensure its compliance.
In a joint statement, the G7 leaders endorsed the proposal, which includes an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, a significant increase in humanitarian aid throughout Gaza, and measures to ensure the security of Israel and the safety of Gazan civilians.
“We, the Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7), fully endorse and will stand behind the comprehensive deal outlined by President Biden that would lead to an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, a significant and sustained increase in humanitarian assistance for distribution throughout Gaza, and an enduring end to the crisis, with Israel’s security interests and Gazan civilian safety assured,” the statement read.
The G7 leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to a peace process leading to a two-state solution. “We reaffirm our support for a credible pathway towards peace leading to a two-state solution,” they stated.
On Friday, US President Joe Biden announced Israel’s “comprehensive new proposal” aimed at achieving a ceasefire with Hamas and securing the release of hostages held by the group, as reported by CNN.
Earlier today, President Biden discussed the proposal with the Emir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, urging him to leverage Qatar’s influence to secure Hamas’ acceptance of the deal. The proposal, transmitted to Hamas via Qatar, outlines a roadmap for a ceasefire.
The initial phase, spanning six weeks, involves a complete ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas in Gaza, and the release of several hostages, including women, the elderly, and the wounded, in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
This development follows Israel’s presentation of new ideas for hostage and ceasefire negotiations earlier in the week, according to a diplomatic source familiar with the discussions, as reported by CNN.
