Israel-Hamas war: Western leaders implore IDF to avoid civilian casualties

Leaders of Western nations have asked the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) to abide by international laws and avoid civilian casualties in the ongoing war with Hamas, the Palestinian militant group.

The call was made in a joint statement on Sunday signed by President Joe Biden of the United States, President Emmanuel Macron of France, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of Italy, and Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany.

According to the statement, the leaders reiterated their support for Israel and its right to defend itself against terrorism but noted that there was need to adhere to international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians.

The leaders also welcomed the release of two hostages and called for the immediate release of all remaining hostages.

“They committed to close coordination to support their nationals in the region, in particular those wishing to leave Gaza,” the statement said.

Following the Hamas attack on Israel, the Jewish nation cut off essential supplies such as water, medicine and food to Gaza.

However, after Biden announced $100 million as humanitarian assistance in Gaza and the West Bank during his visit to Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli prime minister, said humanitarian aid would be allowed to reach southern Gaza from Egypt but that they would intervene if any of it reached Hamas.

The joint statement said the leaders welcomed the announcement of the first humanitarian convoys to Palestinians in Gaza, and committed to continue coordinating with partners in the region to ensure sustained and safe access to food, water, medical care, and other assistance required to meet humanitarian needs.

“The leaders committed to continue close diplomatic coordination, including with key partners in the region, to prevent the conflict from spreading, preserve stability in the Middle East, and work toward a political solution and durable peace,” the statement added.

Sunak had also visited Israel and pledged the UK’s support while condemning the “horrific act of terrorism” the nation had suffered.