Brussels: The European Union has expressed grave concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, highlighting the unacceptable level of civilian casualties and widespread starvation. The EU emphasized the urgent need to protect civilians, including humanitarian workers, and safeguard vital civilian infrastructure such as medical facilities, schools, and UN premises.
According to European Union, the organization is urging Israel to lift its blockade on Gaza to allow unimpeded and safe humanitarian assistance. This assistance must be distributed at scale across Gaza, enabling UN agencies and humanitarian organizations to operate independently to alleviate suffering. The EU has consistently called on Israel to adhere to its international obligations, particularly international humanitarian law.
The EU Council of Ministers' meeting in June led to a dialogue between the EU and Israeli authorities regarding the humanitarian situation. Following these discussions, Israel has agreed to take steps to improve conditions in the Gaza Strip. The EU also continues to advocate for an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of hostages, aiming for a permanent end to hostilities. The EU supports mediation efforts by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar while condemning Hamas' refusal to release hostages.
The EU reaffirms its commitment to a sustainable peace based on a two-state solution, envisioning Israel and a sovereign Palestine coexisting peacefully. The EU is prepared to contribute to efforts towards this solution and urges all parties to avoid actions that could undermine its feasibility. The organization continues to support the Palestinian Authority and its reform agenda.
In pursuit of a peaceful resolution, the EU anticipates the High-Level International Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia from July 28-30.
