The leaders of the European Union have spoken forcefully today about the situation of confrontation in Gaza, where more than 30,000 people have already died. Following a summit in Brussels, the leaders of the 27 member countries have called for an “immediate humanitarian pause” leading to “a sustainable ceasefire, the unconditional release of all hostages and the provision of humanitarian assistance.” “.

First common agreement on the situation in Gaza

This statement is relevant because, for the first time, it shows a consensus among EU leaders When requesting a permanent end to the conflict: So far, the only agreements reached between the Europartners They made reference to carrying out “humanitarian pauses”although a ceasefire had never been considered.

In the same text signed by those attending the summit, you can read how the EU leaders call on Netanyahu not to launch an offensive against the city of Rafah, where one million Gazans are displaced near the border with Egypt. For the partners, this operation on the enclave would worsen a situation “already catastrophic” that Palestinian citizens are suffering.

The writing speaks of the “critical” situation that is being experienced in the Strip, as well as the “disproportionate effect” of the Israeli operation on civilians, “particularly children,” point out the representatives of the European Union.

UNRWA and humanitarian corridors

The leaders have also expressed concern about the “imminent risk of famine”, and for this reason they ask for the authorization of more land crossings with Gaza and permission for air and maritime aid “to complement the land routes that continue to be the main means of transporting the necessary volumes.” This common position adopted by the leaders considers “full, rapid, secure and unhindered” humanitarian access “essential.”

EU countries have also expressed its support to the United Nations National Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), and its “essential” role in providing humanitarian aid in the Strip. The members have also appreciated the Agency’s quick reaction following accusations of having Hamas collaborators among its ranks. The Union “looks forward to the results of the investigation and further decisive measures from the UN to ensure accountability and strengthen control and supervision.

Condemnation of violence in the West Bank

Finally, Union members have strongly condemned the violence carried out by some settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. To prevent the proliferation of these actions, the Member States of the UE have committed to accelerate their work for “the adoption of the relevant specific restrictive measures”