In recent days, the Palestinian-Israeli conflict has reached a critical juncture, marked by a significant offensive by the Palestinian group Hamas against Israel. This unexpected assault has led to casualties, hostages being taken, and ongoing hostilities.
The international community has been closely monitoring these developments, prompting various nations to express their concerns and positions on the escalating situation. Here is an overview of international reactions to the crisis:
Saudi Arabia:
The Saudi Arabian Foreign Ministry issued a statement urging an immediate ceasefire. The Saudi government has expressed deep concern over the intensifying violence and its potential regional repercussions.
Pakistan:
Pakistan has voiced its deep concern over the mounting hostilities in the Middle East and the tragic loss of innocent lives. The nation stands in firm solidarity with the Palestinians, calling for an immediate end to the violence and the oppression carried out by Israeli occupation forces.
United States:
US President Joe Biden reaffirmed the unwavering support of the United States for Israel, describing it as “rock solid.” He ordered US ships and warplanes to move closer to Israel as a demonstration of support.
China:
The Chinese Foreign Ministry issued a statement expressing deep concern about the escalating tensions and violence between Palestine and Israel. China called upon all parties involved to exercise restraint, declare an immediate ceasefire, protect civilians, and prevent further deterioration of the situation.
Russia:
Russia’s Foreign Ministry has called for an “immediate ceasefire” and the initiation of negotiations aimed at achieving a comprehensive, lasting, and long-awaited peace.
Qatar:
Qatar has called on both sides to exercise utmost restraint and has urged the international community to prevent Israel from using these events as a pretext for launching a disproportionate war against Palestinian civilians. The country’s foreign ministry has emphasized that Israel bears sole responsibility for the escalating violence involving the Palestinian people.
Ukraine:
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky extended condolences to Israeli Prime Minister for the numerous casualties resulting from what he described as a “terrorist attack.” He acknowledged Israel’s “indisputable” right to self-defense.
France:
The French Foreign Ministry has called for the immediate release of hostages taken by Hamas. French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna engaged in telephone discussions with counterparts in the Middle East to prevent the conflict from spreading to other parts of the region.
Germany:
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz reassured Prime Minister Netanyahu of Germany’s unwavering support for Israel. He emphasized Israel’s right to defend itself against “barbaric attacks” and to protect its citizens.
Britain:
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pledged support, declaring that “terrorism will not prevail.” London reaffirmed its steadfast backing for Israel.
Italy:
Italy expressed solidarity with the Israeli people during this challenging period. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reaffirmed Rome’s full support for Israel.
Japan:
Japan has strongly condemned the attacks and called for restraint. The nation expressed serious concern about the high number of casualties in the Gaza Strip resulting from the actions of the Israel Defense Forces.
India:
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed solidarity with Israel during this trying time.
Spain:
Spain’s acting Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares condemned the attacks from Gaza against Israel. The Spanish government strongly disapproved of the indiscriminate violence and expressed solidarity with the victims.
United Arab Emirates (UAE):
The UAE called for maximum restraint and an immediate ceasefire to prevent grave consequences, as conveyed in a statement from the foreign ministry.
Morocco:
The Kingdom of Morocco expressed deep concern about the deteriorating situation and military actions in the Gaza Strip. The country condemned attacks against civilians, wherever they may occur.
Brazil:
As the chair of the UN Security Council, Brazil announced its intention to convene an emergency meeting to address the escalating violence and called for restraint in the conflict.
