Joint Statement: Efforts for Peace and Stability
French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and UK Labor Leader Keir Starmer have issued a major joint statement on the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, welcoming and supporting the call by the mediating powers of the United States, Egypt and Qatar to start negotiations to achieve a prisoner swap and a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.
The statement said that an agreement had been reached that “there can be no further delay” in starting negotiations. It was emphasized that “we are working with all parties to prevent escalation of tensions, we will spare no effort to reduce tensions and find a path to stability” and that the parties called for urgent action.
Emphasizing that the conflicts must end immediately and the captives must be released, the leaders made the following assessment: “The people of Gaza need urgent and unlimited aid delivery and distribution.”
The statement also expressed concern over the escalating tension in the region. It was noted that there was agreement that tensions should be reduced and regional stability should be ensured. The key points of the statement were listed as follows:
- Need for Help:The need for assistance for the people of Gaza is urgent.
- Work of the Parties:The aim is to reduce tensions by working together with all parties.
- Warning to Iran and its Allies:Iran and its allies were called on to refrain from actions that would increase regional tensions.
- Peace and Stability:Responsibility for actions that jeopardize this opportunity for peace and stability lies with those who commit those actions.
- Lack of profit:No one will benefit from escalating tensions in the Middle East.
In a joint statement yesterday, the US, Egypt and Qatar called on both Israel and Hamas to resume negotiations on a ceasefire in Gaza and a prisoner swap on August 15 in Cairo or Doha.
