London: The Foreign Ministers of France, Germany, and the UK, collectively known as the E3, have issued a joint statement calling for an immediate return to the ceasefire in Gaza. The statement emphasizes the urgency of halting hostilities, citing the resumption of Israeli strikes as a significant setback for the people of Gaza, hostages, their families, and the entire region.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the E3 expressed deep concern over civilian casualties and reiterated the need for all parties to resume negotiations to ensure the ceasefire is fully implemented and becomes permanent. The ministers underscored that this process must include the release of hostages by Hamas, emphasizing the group's responsibility for their continued detention.
The statement also highlighted the right of both Israelis and Palestinians to peace and security, urging those with influence over Hamas to prevent further attacks against Israel. The E3 declared that Hamas should not govern Gaza or pose a threat to Israel, while also stressing that military solutions are not viable for resolving the conflict, as they lead to more casualties.
The joint statement called on Israel to adhere to international law and facilitate the immediate flow of aid to Gaza. It emphasized the importance of protecting civilians and maintaining access to essential services such as water, electricity, and medical care, in line with international humanitarian law.
The E3 ministers expressed shock over a deadly incident involving a UNOPS building in Gaza, resulting in the death of a UN employee and injuries to several others, including European citizens. They called for a thorough investigation into the incident, stressing that UN personnel and premises should be safeguarded.
The statement concluded by asserting that a long-lasting ceasefire is crucial for achieving sustainable peace, a two-state solution, and the reconstruction of Gaza.