Tel Aviv: Foreign ministers from Western nations and major global powers, along with the European Union, have called on Israel to allow immediate and unrestricted humanitarian aid into Gaza. They urge Israel to permit the United Nations and humanitarian organizations to operate independently to save lives and reduce the suffering of the population. This request was made in a joint statement by the foreign ministers of multiple countries, including France, Australia, Canada, and others, as well as representatives from the European Commission.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the statement highlights concerns over the prolonged blockade of humanitarian aid by Israel, which has lasted over two months, resulting in depleted food, medicine, and essential supplies in Gaza. The ministers emphasize the dire need for aid, as the population faces severe shortages. The statement acknowledges the courage of UN and humanitarian NGO personnel who previously delivered aid under challenging conditions imposed by Israel.
The statement also criticizes a new model for delivering aid into Gaza reportedly approved by Israel's security cabinet, which UN and humanitarian partners cannot support as it fails to respect humanitarian principles. The ministers stress that humanitarian aid should remain independent of political and military objectives and emphasize the importance of maintaining the integrity and neutrality of aid delivery in conflict zones.
The joint statement underscores the urgency for Israel to resume full aid access to Gaza and allow humanitarian organizations to operate independently. The ministers also call for the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas and stress the importance of working towards a ceasefire and a two-state solution for lasting peace and stability in the region.