EU, G7 urge de-escalation in Mideast.
Iran, allies launch drone, missile strikes on Israel Saturday night.
In a joint statement of concern, European Union (EU) and Group of Seven (G7) leaders have emphasized the urgent need to prevent any further escalation in the Middle East
European Council President Charles Michel took to social media to express the gravity of the situation, stating, “Everything must be done to prevent further regional escalation. More bloodshed must be avoided.
Echoing Michel’s sentiments, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the importance of restraint and stability, saying, “All actors must now refrain from further escalation and work to restore stability in the region.”
The coordinated stance from EU and G7 leaders underscores the international community’s concerns over the potential for heightened conflict and the urgent need for diplomacy to prevail. As tensions remain high in the region, the call for de-escalation and efforts to maintain peace takes center stage in global diplomatic efforts.
Josep Borrell, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, emphasized the urgent need for restraint among all parties involved, calling the situation an “unprecedented escalation.” Taking to social media, Borrell announced an extraordinary meeting of EU foreign affairs ministers on April 16, aimed at contributing to the de-escalation and security of the region.
Following a virtual gathering on Sunday, the G7 leaders echoed similar sentiments, urging de-escalation and restraint from all parties, as reported by Xinhua news agency. The coordinated efforts from both the EU and G7 underscore the international community’s shared goal of averting further conflict and restoring stability in the Middle East.
The G7 leaders, in a joint statement, emphasized the critical need to prevent further escalation in the Middle East, urging all parties to refrain from actions that could exacerbate tensions in the region.
The statement highlighted the G7’s call for an end to the crisis in Gaza, emphasizing a cessation of hostilities and the release of Israeli hostages by Hamas. Additionally, the G7 leaders pledged to continue providing humanitarian aid to the Palestinian population as part of their efforts to address the ongoing situation.
Comprising Canada, the US, France, Germany, Italy, the UK, Japan, and top representatives of the European Union, the G7’s united stance reflects the international community’s commitment to peace and stability in the region.
The recent coordinated drone and missile strikes on Israel by Iran and allied armed groups have added to the complexities of the situation. Iran’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations justified the military action based on Article 51 of the UN Charter, citing the legitimate right to self-defense. The action was reportedly in response to an Israeli attack on the Iranian consulate in Syria on April 1.
In a statement on Sunday, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian indicated that Iran was no longer seeking to continue its retaliatory military operation against Israel at the current moment.
The developments underscore the fragile state of affairs in the Middle East, with ongoing conflicts, humanitarian crises, and the threat of further violence looming large. The international community, represented by the G7, continues to work towards de-escalation, peace, and the well-being of all affected populations.