Iraqi PM, French president call for ceasefire in Gaza Strip

BAGHDAD -- Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani and French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday called for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip to avoid repercussions for regional and world peace.

During a phone call, the two leaders discussed the rapid developments in the region due to the ongoing conflict between Palestinians and Israelis, especially the bombing of the Gaza Strip that affects civilians, according to a statement issued by al-Sudani's media office.

The two sides emphasized that the continued escalation between Palestinians and Israelis had serious repercussions on regional and international peace and security, the statement said, adding that they agreed to maintain communication and joint efforts for a ceasefire and contain the conflict in order to reach comprehensive and just solutions.

For his part, Macron pointed out the need to take serious action to prevent the expansion of the conflict and save the lives of civilians, the statement said.

The statement added that al-Sudani and Macron agreed on the necessity of securing an immediate ceasefire and opening safe corridors for humanitarian aid to reach the besieged residents of Gaza.

On Oct 7, the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) launched a surprise attack by firing thousands of rockets against Israeli targets, prompting extensive airstrikes from the Israeli side. Hamas militants also infiltrated Israeli territory and took a significant number of hostages during the attack.

More than 1,400 people in Israel were killed in the attacks launched by Hamas, according to figures released by Israel's military. Israeli attacks have killed 4,651 Palestinians, according to figures released by the Hamas-run Health Ministry.