Israel Rejects Ceasefire Call from 25 Western Nations Amidst Escalating Conflict in Gaza

On July 7, 2025, heavy smoke was observed rising from the Gaza Strip, prompting significant international concern. The Israeli Foreign Ministry has publicly rejected a joint appeal from 25 Western nations that called for a permanent and unconditional ceasefire, stating that the message sent by the statement is misguided and fails to recognize the reality of the situation. The ministry emphasized that Hamas is solely responsible for the ongoing conflict and the hostage crisis.

Following more than 21 months of intense fighting that has severely impacted the humanitarian situation in Gaza—a region home to over two million people—countries including Britain, France, and Canada, along with the EU, have urged an immediate cessation of hostilities. The collective statement highlighted the dire suffering faced by civilians in Gaza and condemned Israel's approach to delivering aid, asserting that it violates international humanitarian law and undermines the dignity of the Gazan population.

Recent military actions in Deir el-Balah have intensified, with heavy shelling reported as Israel's forces expanded their operations into an area that had previously seen little conflict. Reports indicate that between 50,000 and 80,000 people were present when evacuation orders were issued. As of Sunday, the Gaza health ministry reported that at least 58,895 Palestinians have died and approximately 140,980 have been injured as a result of Israeli military actions since October 7, 2023.