Brussels: The European Union on Monday welcomed the release of Israeli occupation hostages, stating that it “brings hope to the Middle East,” and announced the resumption of its civilian mission on the border crossing between Gaza and Egypt on Wednesday.
According to Kuwait News Agency, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed optimism in a post on X, noting that “a new page can be turned and a new chapter can begin.” She emphasized that Europe “fully supports the peace plan brokered by the United States, Qatar, Egypt, and Trkiye.” Von der Leyen highlighted the significance of “the finalization of the agreement ending the war today in Sharm El-Sheikh” as a historical achievement. She also stated that the European Union “stands ready to contribute to its success with all tools at its disposal, particularly by supporting governance and reform of the Palestinian Authority.” Furthermore, she mentioned that the European Union will actively participate in the Palestinian Donors Group and provide “EU funding for the reconstruction of Gaza.”
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas echoed similar sentiments in her post on X, celebrating the release of hostages as a “major success for diplomacy and a crucial milestone toward peace.” She praised the efforts of US President Donald Trump in achieving what she described as a “historic breakthrough.” Kallas acknowledged the complexities involved in securing peace in Gaza, emphasizing that the peace plan requires robust international support to succeed. She affirmed that the European Union is prepared to contribute to this process, announcing the resumption of the European Union’s civilian mission to monitor the border crossing between Gaza and Egypt on Wednesday. Kallas noted that this mission could play a vital role in supporting the ceasefire.