The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) must be allowed to operate freely in Gaza, G7 leaders stated as the summit concluded its second day in Italy.

"We concur that enabling UNRWA and other UN entities to distribute aid effectively to those in need is of utmost importance," the G7 nations affirmed in their final communique.

They called on all parties to ensure "swift and unobstructed humanitarian aid passage for civilians in need," particularly prioritizing women and children in Gaza.

"Ensuring rapid, safe, and uninterrupted humanitarian access through all possible routes, including land crossings like Rafah and maritime routes such as Ashdod Port, remains a top priority," they added.

Since the war on Gaza began on October 7, UNRWA, responsible for most aid coordination, has been frequently targeted by Israel.

The G7 expressed deep concern over the "unacceptable civilian casualties" and reiterated support for a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement.

"We are gravely concerned about the impact of ongoing operations in Rafah on civilians and the potential for a major military offensive," they said, urging Israel to avoid such actions.

"We denounce the rise of extremist settler violence against Palestinians, which jeopardizes security and peace prospects in the West Bank," the statement continued.

Oxfam responded to the G7's statements by urging Israel and its G7 allies to take tangible actions, implement proposals, withdraw Israeli forces from Gaza, and end the occupation. "The time for talking is over," Oxfam declared. 

‘Crucial moment in history’

On Friday, the G7 shifted their focus to migration, artificial intelligence, economic security, and the Asia-Pacific region. The leaders highlighted their commitment to addressing global challenges "at this critical juncture in history."

The summit in Italy’s southern Puglia (Apulia) region also covered significant topics including financial support for Ukraine, climate change, Iran, the Red Sea situation, gender equality, and China's economic policies.

"We are collaborating with other nations to tackle the pressing issues of our time," the final communique stated.

Migration was Friday's primary topic, with leaders exploring strategies to combat trafficking and increase investment in source countries of refugees and migrants facing perilous journeys.

This subject is particularly significant to host Italy, which is a major entry point into the EU for individuals fleeing conflict and poverty from Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, known for her strict migration stance, advocates for increased investment and funding for African nations to mitigate migratory pressure on Europe.

The leaders "initiated the G7 Coalition to prevent and counter migrant smuggling," emphasizing efforts to address the root causes of irregular migration, enhance border management, curtail transnational crime, and promote safe migration pathways.

Besides G7 members, Italy invited African leaders such as Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, Kenyan President William Ruto, and Tunisian President Kais Saied to discuss Meloni’s migration and development initiatives.

However, rights organizations criticized the lack of substantial support for developing nations.

The ONE Campaign noted that G7 and EU aid to Africa is at its lowest share since 1973.

"Without concrete steps, the G7 in Italy is just empty words," stated David McNair, ONE Campaign's executive director. Although the final declaration hints at increased G7-Africa partnerships, specifics on new financial commitments are scarce.