Prime Ministers of Canada, New Zealand, and Australia have issued an open letter calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The letter, addressed to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urges acceptance of a U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal endorsed by the UN Security Council. The leaders highlight the catastrophic human suffering in Gaza, where over 39,000 Palestinians have been killed in the nine-month conflict. They advocate for a two-state solution excluding Hamas from future governance and express support for ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis.
Humanitarian Crisis and Political Context
The letter describes the situation in Gaza as “catastrophic” and “unacceptable,” emphasizing the urgent need for a ceasefire. It calls on Netanyahu to accept the latest proposal for peace, which has received significant international backing. The prime ministers also reiterate their commitment to a two-state solution, clarifying that Hamas, designated as a terrorist organization by several countries including Canada, should not govern Gaza in the future.
Recent Developments
This plea comes amid recent political movements, including a unity agreement between Hamas and Fatah to form a government for Palestinian territories. The unity deal, announced after talks in Beijing, has been met with criticism from Israel and its allies, who are wary of Hamas’s continued influence.
International Diplomatic Efforts
The open letter also references ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the crisis. Netanyahu is currently in Washington, D.C. for discussions with U.S. leaders, indicating that a deal to return Israeli hostages is nearing completion. The prime ministers urge all parties to work towards a sustainable and peaceful resolution, ensuring that humanitarian aid can reach those in need and that hostilities cease immediately.
Commitment to Peace and Stability
The letter closes with a strong call for international cooperation to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and to establish a lasting peace in the region. The leaders express hope that through coordinated efforts, a viable and just solution can be achieved, bringing an end to the suffering and fostering stability in the Middle East.