EU leaders call for ‘pauses’ in Gaza fighting to allow aid deliveries

European Union leaders at a summit on Thursday called for “humanitarian corridors and pauses” in Gaza, to allow the safe and unhindered access of aid deliveries.

The European Council released a statement following hours of negotiations at a summit of the bloc in Brussels.

“The European Council expresses its gravest concern for the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and calls for continued, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access and aid to reach those in need through all necessary measures including humanitarian corridors and pauses for humanitarian needs,” the statement read.

“The European Union will work closely with partners in the region to protect civilians, provide assistance and facilitate access to food, water, medical care, fuel and shelter, ensuring that such assistance is not abused by terrorist organisations,” added the declaration, issued at the summit in Brussels.

This follows appeals for an immediate ceasefire to allow humanitarian aid to reach Gaza, causing much debate in the bloc for days. Countries supporting appeals for ceasefire at a leaders’ summit in Brussels included Spain, Ireland and Belgium. Others like Germany and Hungary emphasized Israel’s right to self-defense.

Source » dw.com