In the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, a recent joint statement by Canada, Australia, and New Zealand has been praised by a top Hamas official. The statement calls for a permanent ceasefire and was issued last week amid escalating violence between the two sides. Canada, Australia, and New Zealand are all part of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance.
The conflict started on October 7 when thousands of Hamas terrorists stormed into Israel, resulting in the death of over 1,200 Israelis, more than 5,300 injuries, and hundreds of kidnappings. Moreover, reported cases of rape and torture have been rampant in towns near the Gaza border. The situation has been ongoing, with both sides refusing to back down.
The joint statement issued by the three nations indicates a shift in the approach of Western governments towards Palestine. In the statement, the nations expressed their support for urgent international efforts towards a sustainable ceasefire and resumption of the peace process. Hamas official, Ghazi Hamad, welcomed this development and called it a step towards isolating the Israeli government and ending the longest-ever occupation in our modern time.
The United States, a key player in the region, has taken a different position on the matter, which has caused concern in the Palestinian camp. However, the statement by Canada, Australia, and New Zealand has been viewed as positive news for Hamas and its allies.
It is worth noting that the call for a ceasefire comes amid reports of a humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The Palestinian enclave has been under siege for over a decade, with severe shortages of food, water supplies, and medical aid.
The joint statement by the three Western governments has also been viewed as a significant development in international efforts to establish peace in the region. The move to support a permanent ceasefire is seen as an indication of the growing concern regarding the ongoing situation in Gaza.