The EU High Representative for Foreign Policy and Security, Josep Borrell, called on Sunday night for an immediate pause in the fighting in the Gaza Strip to allow the evacuation of patients.
“The EU is seriously concerned about the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The EU joins calls for an immediate pause in hostilities and the establishment of humanitarian corridors, including increased capacity at border crossings and through a dedicated sea route, so that humanitarian aid can safely reach the people of Gaza.” , according to the statement published on the EU website.
He added that the bloc “condemns the use of hospitals and civilians as human shields by Hamas” and that “civilians must be allowed to leave the combat zone.”
“Hospitals must be immediately supplied with the most urgent medical supplies, and patients in need of urgent medical assistance must be safely evacuated. In this context, we call on Israel to exercise maximum restraint to ensure the protection of civilians,” Borrell stressed.
He added that “the EU once again emphasizes Israel’s right to defend itself in accordance with international law and international humanitarian law”.
“The EU reiterates its call to Hamas for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. It is crucial that the International Committee of the Red Cross be granted access to the hostages,” the top EU diplomat stressed.
