Five foreign ministers from Germany, Italy, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand condemned Israel's plans to take control of Gaza City, warning it would worsen the humanitarian crisis, endanger hostages, and violate international law. The Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Netanyahu, proceeded with the plan despite military warnings and international criticism, while Hamas rejected the expansion. The UN and aid organizations highlighted the dire situation, with insufficient aid reaching Gaza amid ongoing violence and blockades, raising fears of famine and further displacement.
NATO foreign ministers gathered in Brussels to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Alliance's founding document, the North Atlantic Treaty, with Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg emphasizing the organization's growth and unity. Monuments throughout Brussels are marking the occasion, with the city illuminated in NATO blue and the iconic Manneken Pis statue wearing a special NATO Day costume. Other Allies are also holding events to commemorate the anniversary.
NATO foreign ministers concluded their two-day summit in Brussels, emphasizing unity and discussing long-term viability of the alliance. Germany's Foreign Minister described NATO as a crucial security anchor in Europe, while US Secretary of State reiterated strong support for Ukraine's eventual NATO membership. The Kremlin accused NATO of direct confrontation and destabilizing influence, while NATO discussed plans to provide systematic military support and €100 billion in long-term aid for Ukraine.
NATO Foreign Ministers discussed various security issues, including deterrence and defence, support for Ukraine, and partnerships with other nations. They expressed concern about the war in the Middle East and welcomed the pause in hostilities between Israel and Hamas. The Ministers reiterated their determination to support Ukraine's path to NATO and announced new financial pledges and support for Ukraine's defense. They also addressed the challenges posed by China and emphasized the need to work closely with partners. The Ministers approved NATO's first-ever quantum strategy and the upgrade of NATO's AWACS fleet. They will also address the situation in the Western Balkans.
The foreign ministers of Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Ukraine have announced their boycott of an Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) meeting in North Macedonia due to the participation of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. They argue that Lavrov's presence will provide Russia with a propaganda opportunity and accuse Russia of coercing and undermining the OSCE. The Russian delegation plans to emphasize the return of the OSCE to its original principles and purpose. Lavrov's visit to a NATO member country since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022 is seen as significant.
Foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and partner countries are meeting in Jakarta to discuss the situation in Myanmar, which continues to divide ASEAN and cause global concern. Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi emphasized the need for ASEAN to navigate complex challenges and promote collaboration amidst the crisis.
Foreign ministers from the BRICS countries are meeting in South Africa to strengthen the bloc as a counterweight to Western geopolitical dominance in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The talks are a prelude to an August summit in Johannesburg that has already created controversy because of the possible attendance of Russian President Vladimir Putin, the target of an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant. Discussions would aim to deepen ties among existing members and consider an expansion of the group. Amid the growing geopolitical polarisation resulting from the war in Ukraine, BRICS leaders have said they are open to admitting new members, including oil producing countries.
Jordan is proposing a joint Arab peace plan to end the Syrian conflict, which will be discussed at a meeting hosted by Saudi Arabia attended by foreign ministers from Iraq, Jordan, Egypt, and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. The plan aims to tackle the humanitarian, security, and political consequences of the conflict, including the return of millions of refugees and national reconciliation. Winning the West's support is crucial to end the crisis and lift U.S. and European sanctions on Syria to enable massive reconstruction of the war-torn country and address its dire humanitarian needs.
