Led by Biden, Western leaders stress Israel’s right to self-defense, say it must protect civilians

The leaders of the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom have issued a joint statement stressing their support for Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas while calling on Jerusalem to protect civilian lives.

“The leaders reiterated their support for Israel and its right to defend itself against terrorism and called for adherence to international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians,” says the statement from US President Joe Biden, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak following a joint phone call they held earlier today.

The leaders “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,” says the statement organized by the US.

This is the second joint statement in support of Israel that Biden has led with Western leaders since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war following the terror group’s assault from Gaza on October 7.

“The leaders welcomed the announcement of the first humanitarian convoys to reach Palestinians in need 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 adds.