European Union (EU) leaders on Thursday condemned the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the rising civilian casualties, calling on Israel to fully lift the blockade.
At a summit in Brussels, the European Council called on Israel to allow “immediate, unhindered access and the sustainable distribution of large-scale humanitarian aid” across Gaza.
In conclusions adopted at the summit, EU leaders called for an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages, stressing the need for a permanent cessation of hostilities.
“The European Union stands ready to contribute to all efforts towards this solution and calls on all parties to refrain from actions that undermine its viability,” they said.
They also called on Israel to comply with international law and ensure the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers, as well as civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, schools and UN facilities.
The European Council took note of the report on the implementation of Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, which conditions relations on respect for human rights, and called for discussions to continue on possible further steps in July, depending on developments on the ground.
Separately, leaders reiterated their strong condemnation of settler violence and the illegal expansion of settlements in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and called for further sanctions against extremist settlers and their supporters.
On Iran, EU leaders reiterated that the country must never be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons and must fulfil its obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty.
The EU said it would continue to support diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions and achieving a lasting solution to the Iranian nuclear issue through negotiations.
The Council also reaffirmed the EU’s strong commitment to peace, security and stability in the Middle East.
“The European Council welcomes the cessation of hostilities and calls on all parties to comply with international law, show restraint and refrain from taking actions that could lead to a new escalation,” they concluded.
