They condemned Hamas, supported Israel's right to self-defence and called for "humanitarian pauses" to speed aid to desperate civilians in the Gaza Strip.
In a statement released on Wednesday following two days of talks, the nations sought to balance unequivocal criticism of Hamas' attacks against Israel and "the need for urgent action" to help civilians in the besieged
It came "at a very intense time for our countries and for the world", Blinken said in remarks to reporters, adding that "G7 unity is stronger and more important than ever". Israel said its troops were battling Hamas militants deep inside Gaza City, which was home to some 650,000 people before the war and where the Israel military says Hamas has its central command and a vast labyrinth of tunnels.
Looking ahead to after the war, Blinken said, "key elements should include no forcible displacement of Palestinians from Gaza. ... No use of Gaza as a platform for terrorism or other violent attacks. No reoccupation of Gaza after the conflict ends. No attempt to blockade or besiege Gaza. No reduction in the territory of Gaza.
"Our steadfast commitment to supporting Ukraine's fight for its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity will never waver," the statement said.
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