G-7 calls for ‘humanitarian pauses’ to allow aid into Gaza

TOKYO — Foreign ministers from the Group of 7 developed economies called for “humanitarian pauses” to allow aid into the Gaza Strip but not a full -cease-fire, in a joint statement at a meeting in Tokyo today.

“We support humanitarian pauses and corridors to facilitate urgently needed assistance, civilian movement, and the release of hostages,” said the statement from the group, which includes the U.S. 

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The G-7 condemned the Oct. 7 terrorist attacks by Hamas and the continuing rocket attacks against Israel: “We emphasize Israel’s right to defend itself and its people, in accordance with international law, as it seeks to prevent a recurrence.” It also said the rise in violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank was “unacceptable” and undermined security.

“Israelis and Palestinians have an equal right to live in safety, dignity, and peace,” the statement said. “We reject antisemitism and Islamophobia in any form in our own societies and anywhere in the world.”

The statement added that a two-state solution “remains the only path to a just, lasting, and secure peace.”