Amid escalating hostilities between Israel and Hamas, world leaders have voiced their concerns and called for restraint in the ongoing conflict. The situation intensified after the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas launched thousands of rockets into Israel, prompting international reactions and concerns for the safety of civilians.
Global Leaders Speak Out
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi: India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep shock over the terrorist attacks in Israel. He conveyed his thoughts and prayers to the innocent victims and their families, affirming India’s solidarity with Israel during this challenging period.
- The United States: The White House issued a statement unequivocally condemning the unprovoked attacks by “Hamas terrorists” against Israeli civilians. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan remained in close contact with Israeli counterparts throughout the operation.
- Britain’s Prime Minister Rishi Sunak: PM Sunak condemned the attacks by Hamas terrorists, stating that Israel has an absolute right to defend itself. He urged British nationals in Israel to follow travel advice.
- French President Emmanuel Macron: President Macron expressed strong condemnation of the ongoing terrorist attacks against Israel. He extended his full solidarity to the victims, their families, and loved ones.
- Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz: Chancellor Scholz decried the rocket fire from Gaza and escalating violence, expressing Germany’s condemnation of these Hamas attacks and standing firmly with Israel.
- The Netherlands’ Prime Minister Mark Rutte: Prime Minister Rutte spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu and expressed unequivocal condemnation of the terrorist violence. He affirmed the Netherlands’ support for Israel’s right to self-defense.
- Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s Adviser: Rahim Safavi, a senior adviser to Iran’s supreme leader, expressed support for the surprise attack launched by Hamas against Israel, calling it a “proud operation.”
- Egypt: The Egyptian foreign ministry warned of “grave consequences” if tensions between Israel and the Palestinians escalate further. The statement emphasized the need for maximum restraint to protect civilians.
- Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan: President Erdogan called for restraint from all parties involved in the conflict and urged them to refrain from aggressive acts.
- Russia: Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov stated that Russia is in contact with Israel, the Palestinians, and Arab countries concerning the escalating conflict. He emphasized the call for restraint in the situation.
Israel’s Response
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel is at “war” with Hamas, describing the situation as a “murderous surprise attack” on Israel and its people. Netanyahu ordered an extensive mobilization of reserves and vowed that the enemy would pay an “unprecedented price.”
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that they were engaged in combat with Gaza terrorists who had entered Israel by land, sea, and air, including the use of paragliders. Israel’s army spokesman, Richard Hecht, explained that it was a combined ground raid involving various methods, with Israeli forces fighting on the ground in specific locations around the Gaza Strip.
As the Israel-Hamas conflict escalates, global leaders are closely monitoring the situation and working towards a peaceful resolution. The world watches with deep concern as the region grapples with increasing tensions and violence.
Sources By Agencies
