Administration of Joseph R. Biden, Jr., 2023

October 22, 2023

Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Prime Minister Trudeau of Canada, President Emmanuel Macron of France, Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of Italy, and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of the United Kingdom spoke regarding the ongoing conflict between Israel and the terrorist organization Hamas. The leaders reiterated their support for Israel and its right to defend itself against terrorism and called for adherence to international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians. They welcomed the release of two hostages and called for the immediate release of all remaining hostages. They committed to close coordination to support their nationals in the region, in particular those wishing to leave Gaza.

The leaders welcomed the announcement of the first humanitarian convoys to reach Palestinians in need in Gaza and committed to continue coordinating with partners in the region to ensure sustained and safe access to food, water, medical care, and other assistance required to meet humanitarian needs. The leaders committed to continue close diplomatic coordination, including with key partners in the region, to prevent the conflict from spreading, preserve stability in the Middle East, and work toward a political solution and durable peace.

NOTE: The joint statement referred to Evanston, IL, residents Judith Raanan and her daughter Natalie Raanan, U.S. citizens who were released on October 20 after being taken hostage by Hamas during the October 7 assault against Israel. An original was not available for verification of the content of this joint statement.

Categories: Joint Statements : Canada, Prime Minister Trudeau, situations in Israel and Gaza; Joint Statements : France, President Macron, situations in Israel and Gaza; Joint Statements : Germany, Chancellor Scholz, situations in Israel and Gaza; Joint Statements : Italy, Prime Minister Meloni, situations in Israel and Gaza; Joint Statements : United Kingdom, Prime Minister Sunak, situations in Israel and Gaza.

Names: Macron, Emmanuel; Meloni, Giorgia; Raanan, Judith; Raanan, Natalie; Scholz, Olaf; Sunak, Rishi; Trudeau, Justin P.J.

Subjects: Canada, Prime Minister; France, President; Gaza, humanitarian situation; Gaza, international assistance; Gaza, U.S. and Israeli hostages; Germany, Chancellor; Hamas political- paramilitary organization; Israel, attacks by Hamas; Italy, Prime Minister; Middle East, regional integration and security; United Kingdom, Prime Minister.

DCPD Number: DCPD202300924.

1