The humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, unlike Ukraine, tests Europe's resolve because we are not united, said European High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaya Kallas in Strasbourg today, BTA reports.
“Europe is not standing idly by. Europe is the most active player in the world regarding Gaza. We are the largest humanitarian aid donor and a consistent supporter of the Palestinian Authority and the two-state solution,“ she said at the plenary session of the European Parliament.
According to the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, not a single truck entered the Gaza Strip from March to July. However, since reaching a humanitarian agreement with Israel, there have been some positive developments - 2,904 trucks have entered between July 10 and September 1, more border crossings have been opened, routes through Jordan and Egypt have been reopened, and the amount of fuel entering Gaza is increasing.
Kallas expressed concern about reports of mass starvation in northern Gaza. “There are serious concerns about the safety and security of international humanitarian personnel, which is hampering efforts to distribute aid. Trucks are being looted and aid is not being distributed properly. The war continues, including in Gaza City,” the European High Representative said.
Member states are divided on how to make the Israeli government change course, she noted, adding that several member states have already taken national measures in response to the Israeli government’s actions.
“Yesterday’s attack in Jerusalem highlights the incredible dangers faced by both Palestinians and Israelis. Aggression breeds aggression and radicalisation. If there had been a military solution, the war in Gaza would have been over long ago. Now we need to mobilise the political will to agree on a European way forward, and I call on the European Parliament to support this effort,“ concluded Kallas.