Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) nations expressed their opposition to a large-scale military operation in Rafah, Gaza by Israel, citing severe potential impacts on civilians.
The ministers from Italy, the UK, the US, France, Germany, Japan, and Canada condemned the significant civilian casualties in Gaza resulting from actions by the Israeli military. Israel has announced plans to deploy troops into the densely populated Rafah area.
The G7 statement highlighted the dire consequences such an operation could have on the civilian population there.
The ministers met on the Italian island of Capri, where they voiced their concerns about the high number of civilian deaths, including many women, children, and other vulnerable persons.
According to reports, Israeli actions have resulted in at least 33,970 Palestinian casualties in Gaza, predominantly among women and children.
Additionally, the White House disclosed that the US and Israel conducted a high-level virtual meeting to discuss various issues, including Iran’s recent attacks and newly announced US sanctions.
The discussions also touched on the objective of defeating Hamas in Rafah, with the US expressing specific concerns about potential actions in the area.
Israeli representatives acknowledged these concerns and agreed to further discussions between experts to consider the US’s points.
