The United States, Germany, France and Italy have issued a joint statement condemning the “appalling acts of terrorism” by Hamas and extended their “steadfast and united support” to Israel.

“Our countries will support Israel in its efforts to defend itself and its people against such atrocities. We further emphasize that this is not a moment for any party hostile to Israel to exploit these attacks to seek advantage,” said the statement by US President Joe Biden, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.