Foreign Mins Voice Support For Gaza Humanitarian Pauses, But No Ceasefire

In a largely-expected move, G7 foreign ministers - meeting in Tokyo - have voiced support for 'humanitarian pauses' in the fighting in Gaza, but have not called for a full ceasefire. In the statement the G7 "emphasise Israel's right to defend itself and its people in accordance with international law", adding they "support humanitarian pauses to facilitate urgently needed assistance, civilian movement, release of hostages."

• At present, the Israel-Hamas war looks set to remain contained to Gaza, with a limited risk of regional escalation. However, this could change at short notice. For the G7, seeking humanitarian aid for Gaza, but also limiting the regional spread of the war are both crucial aims.
• The group also "Calls on Iran to refrain from providing support for Hamas and taking further actions that destabilise the Middle East." Reiterate claim for a two-state solution, "G7 members are committed to working closely with partners to prepare sustainable long-term solutions for Gaza and return to broader peace process that can lea to a two-state solution."
• Separately, on Ukraine the G7 states that "Our steadfast commitment to supporting Ukraine's fight for its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity will never waver. We commit to standing by Ukraine for as long as it takes, while increasing economic pressure and imposing robust sanctions and other restrictions against Russia."
• G7: "We strongly condemn arms transfers from North Korea to Russia...We further call on China not to assist Russia in its war against Ukraine, to press Russia to stop its military aggression, and to support a just and lasting peace in Ukraine."