After a discussion on the Middle East at a summit in Brussels, EU leaders called for “an immediate humanitarian pause leading to a sustainable ceasefire,” European Council President Charles Michel said.
He added that “full & safe humanitarian access into Gaza is essential to provide the civilian population with life-saving assistance in a catastrophic situation in Gaza.”
A text approved by all 27 leaders also calls for “the unconditional release of all hostages and the provision of humanitarian assistance.”
The statement adds: “The European Council is deeply concerned about the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza and its disproportionate effect on civilians, particularly children, as well as the imminent risk of famine caused by the insufficient entry of aid into Gaza.”
