G7 global leaders 'demand Iran and its proxies cease attacks' in race to ease hostilities

WORLD leaders have raced to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East following Iran's drone and missile blitz on Israel.

- Steph Spyro

In a conference call with fellow G7 leaders yesterday, Rishi Sunak urged them to find an "urgent diplomatic response" as global condemnation of the attacks mounted.

The Prime Minister said afterwards: "I spoke to fellow G7 leaders earlier as we united in condeming Iran's unprecedented and destabilising attack on Israel. We stand with Israel and its people. Together we will continue to work to end the crisis in Gaza and avoid further regional escalation."

In a statement, the G7 leaders said they "unequivocally condemn in the strongest terms" Iran's "direct and unprecedented" attack against Israel.

It continued: "Iran fired hundreds of drones and missiles towards Israel. Israel, with the help of its partners, defeated the attack.

"We express our full solidarity and support to Israel and its people and reaffirm our commitment towards its security.

"With its actions, Iran has further stepped toward the destabilisation of the region and risks provoking an uncontrollable regional escalation. This must be avoided. We will continue to work to stabilise the and avoid further situation escalation.

"In this spirit, we demand that Iran and its proxies cease their attacks, and we stand ready to take further measures now and in response to further destabilising initiatives.

"We will also strengthen our cooperation to end the crisis in Gaza, including by continuing to work towards an immediate and sustainable ceasefire and the release of hostages by Hamas, and deliver increased humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in need."