The leaders of France, Germany, and Britain have endorsed calls for a cease-fire in Gaza, the return of hostages held by Hamas, and the delivery of humanitarian aid. In a joint statement released Monday, they supported efforts by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt to broker an agreement to end the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The mediators have been working on a three-phase plan that involves the release of hostages by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel and Israel's withdrawal from Gaza. The leaders emphasized the immediate need for an end to the fighting and the release of all remaining hostages. They also stressed the urgent and unrestricted distribution of aid to the people of Gaza.
Additionally, the statement called on Iran and its allies to avoid further escalating tensions in the region following the recent killings of two senior militants in Beirut and Tehran.
EU Considers Sanctions in Response to Israeli Minister's Remarks
The European Union's top diplomat has criticized calls by Israel's national security minister to cut off aid to Gaza. The EU foreign policy chief described the remarks as 'incitement to war crimes' and suggested that sanctions should be considered in response.
The Israeli minister proposed blocking humanitarian aid and fuel to Gaza until Hamas releases all hostages, advocating for a tough stance against the militant group. He has also called for the permanent reoccupation of Gaza and the relocation of Palestinians from the territory.
The EU urged Israel to distance itself from these statements and to engage in good-faith negotiations for a cease-fire mediated by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. Concerns have been raised by the United States and other Western allies regarding civilian casualties and aid restrictions in the ongoing conflict.
