Information
The leaders of Germany, France, and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza, the release of Israeli hostages, and the avoidance of further escalation, particularly from Iran and its allies. Chancellor Olaf Scholz, President Emmanuel Macron, and Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasised the need for restraint from groups like Hezbollah and the Houthis to prevent further regional tensions and to maintain the opportunity for a cease-fire and the safe release of hostages.
The renewed plea for peace comes amid a devastating conflict that has led to significant casualties, including a recent Israeli airstrike on a Gaza school that killed over 90 people. The conflict has already claimed the lives of almost 40,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, with growing fears of it escalating into a broader regional war. The killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran has heightened tensions, prompting Iran to vow retaliation, while the U.S. has increased its military support for Israel. The European leaders warned that any party escalating the conflict would bear responsibility for undermining peace efforts in the region.
Source: AFP, dpa
So what
With tensions as high as they are, it is understandable that countries want to intervene and cool things down. However, it seems unlikely that words will work at this stage. While some reporting suggests that the new leader of Hamas may be open to peace talks, Iran does not seem to support this position. It seems likely that Iran is currently in the final stages of its retaliation against Israel, which it claims will be like nothing the world has ever seen. Depending on how this attack goes it is possible there will be further escalation before things cool off.
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