A group of 28 countries, including Japan and members of the European Union, have released a joint statement calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, where violence and civilian deaths are rapidly increasing.
The statement urges Israel to lift restrictions that are blocking the flow of humanitarian aid. It also asks Israel to allow the United Nations and aid groups to carry out life-saving work safely and effectively.
“Further bloodshed serves no purpose,” the statement says, adding that all parties and the international community should unite to end the conflict.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas began in October 2023. Since then, violence has escalated, especially in central Gaza, where Israeli ground troops have recently entered Deir al-Balah for the first time.
Food shortages in Gaza are critical. In May, a U.S.-led foundation launched a food distribution effort.
However, there have been multiple reports of Israeli forces firing near aid sites, leading to the deaths of civilians.
According to local health officials, 1,021 people have died in the latest violence.
Hamas welcomed the international appeal for a ceasefire.
However, Israel rejected the statement.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry responded by saying the blame should lie solely with Hamas, which, according to them, “started and is prolonging the war.”
In Simple Terms:
Many countries—including Japan—are asking both sides in the Gaza conflict to stop fighting right away. They want more aid to reach civilians, and for international groups like the UN to help people safely. But while Hamas agrees with the call, Israel does not, saying Hamas is the reason the war continues.
