UK, France, Canada Condemn Israel Offensive, Hamas Praises Statement

The leaders of the United Kingdom, France, and Canada issued a joint statement condemning Israel's military operations in Gaza as disproportionate and called for an immediate halt to hostilities, unrestricted humanitarian aid access, and the release of hostages held since October 2023. They criticized Israel's recent policies, including inadequate aid provisions to Gaza and settlement expansion in the West Bank, warning of potential sanctions if Israel does not comply. Hamas praised the statement as a positive step and called on other nations to act against what it termed "Zionist aggression," while Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Netanyahu, accused these Western countries of siding with Hamas and enabling terrorism. The Western leaders reaffirmed support for Israel's right to self-defense but stressed the importance of a two-state solution and adherence to international humanitarian law. This diplomatic stance marks a shift in some Western countries' responses, provoking sharp criticism from Israeli government members who reject calls to cease the military offensive until Hamas is defeated. The situation remains highly contentious, reflecting deep divisions over the path to peace and security in the region.