G7 foreign ministers strongly oppose Hamas' control of Gaza Strip

The G7 Foreign Ministers from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, alongside the High Representative of the European Union, strongly opposed Hamas' control of Gaza Strip as they convened on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference under Canada's 2025 Presidency.

The ministers discussed a range of critical political, security, and humanitarian issues affecting the Middle East, with particular focus on Israel, Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and Iran. Their discussions emphasized the G7’s commitment to regional peace and stability, Caliber.Az reports per US Department of State.

The ministers reiterated their unwavering stance in support of a lasting, Israeli-Palestinian peace and expressed strong support for the full implementation of the ceasefire reached between Israel and Hamas.

This includes the release of all hostages and the expansion of humanitarian aid to Gaza. The G7 reaffirmed their backing of ongoing diplomatic efforts led by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States in working towards a permanent ceasefire.

In a joint statement, the G7 ministers reiterated their unequivocal condemnation of Hamas, stressing the importance of preventing the group from reconstituting itself militarily or taking part in governance. They also reaffirmed Israel’s right to defend itself in accordance with international law.

The ministers also addressed the situation in Syria, welcoming the outcomes of the International Conference on Syria, hosted by France on February 13, 2025. They expressed their commitment to supporting the Syrian people and their determination to back an inclusive political transition in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254.

Regarding Lebanon, the G7 praised recent positive developments, including the election of President Joseph Aoun, the designation of Nawaf Salam as Prime Minister, and the formation of a new government. They reiterated their dedication to Lebanon's stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

Finally, the G7 strongly condemned Iran’s destabilizing actions across the Middle East. They highlighted concerns over Iran’s accelerated uranium enrichment, its support for terrorist organizations and armed groups, its proliferation of ballistic missiles and drones, and its broader efforts in transnational repression and the violation of fundamental human rights.

By Vafa Guliyeva