Brussels: Europe and the Arabs

The European Union has reiterated its grave concern regarding the ongoing and devastating humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. Severe flooding and harsh winter conditions affecting the territory are further deteriorating the living conditions of an already exhausted population, exacerbating insecurity and deepening human suffering. According to a European statement circulated in Brussels and issued by the office of the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas:
"The European Union emphasizes the necessity of respecting international law—including international humanitarian law—at all times. This includes the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, as well as medical personnel and facilities. The recent airstrike on Nasser Hospital is a matter of grave concern.
Furthermore, obligations regarding humanitarian aid, as set out in the 'comprehensive plan to end the conflict in Gaza,' must be fully implemented and aligned with international law.
We urge Israel to allow immediate and unimpeded access for humanitarian aid and support for early recovery, to ensure its continuous and widespread distribution, and to reopen all border crossings into the Gaza Strip. Israel must also facilitate the work of the United Nations, its agencies, and humanitarian organizations—including non-governmental organizations—and fulfill all its obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law. In this context, we stress that aid must be used exclusively for peaceful purposes and must not be diverted by armed groups.
A year after the announcement of a ceasefire, military strikes continue, and shortages of essential items—such as adequate shelter, medicine, and medical equipment—persist due to restrictions on access, preventing the existence of acceptable and dignified living conditions.
The European Union reaffirms its commitment to a two-state solution and calls upon all parties to implement it." ...the full implementation of the provisions of UN Security Council Resolution 2803 without delay, in line with relevant Security Council resolutions and international political and legal principles—particularly regarding the permanent disarmament of Hamas and other non-state armed groups, the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, and the full transition toward a civil administration in the territory. Furthermore, Hamas should have no role in the future governance of the Gaza Strip.