Brussels: Europe and the Arabs
In a statement issued in Brussels today, Saturday, the European Union warmly welcomed the ceasefire agreement in Gaza, which will allow the gradual release of the hostages - ending their terrible ordeal that has lasted for more than 15 months - and ending the hostilities and alleviating the humanitarian suffering in Gaza. “We are relieved that the hostages, including several EU citizens, will finally be reunited with their loved ones and that much-needed humanitarian aid will reach civilians in Gaza. It is crucial that the agreement is fully implemented to allow the release of all hostages and ensure a lasting end to hostilities,” said the statement from EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas. “We express our gratitude to the United States, Egypt and Qatar for their efforts in negotiating a ceasefire, which we have consistently called for. This is a major achievement and should have positive repercussions throughout the Middle East.

Since the horrific Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel on 7 October 2023, hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians have been caught up in the violence that has spread across the region. The EU deeply regrets the unacceptable number of civilians, especially children, who have lost their lives.

We call for full and unfettered humanitarian access to the Gaza Strip and for the effective distribution of aid to those in need, including by UN agencies and in particular UNRWA. This must be ensured.” Safe and dignified return of displaced Gazans to their homes. The European Union is committed to a just, comprehensive and lasting peace based on a two-state solution, with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security. We will contribute to this goal by supporting the Palestinian Authority to help it meet its most pressing needs and its reform agenda, and by engaging with Israel and international partners to revive the political process.