The European Union has condemned the refusal of the terrorist group Hamas to accept the extension of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza (see EUROPE 13566/5). On Sunday 2 March, a spokesman for the European External Action Service called for a rapid resumption of negotiations on the second phase of the ceasefire.
“A permanent ceasefire would contribute to the release of all remaining Israeli hostages while ensuring the necessary conditions for recovery and reconstruction in Gaza to begin. All parties have a political responsibility to make this a reality”, said the spokesman in a press release.
On Sunday, the EU reiterated its call for full, rapid, safe and unhindered access for humanitarian aid to Palestinians in need, saying that Israel’s decision to block all aid to the Gaza Strip “could potentially have humanitarian consequences”.
“The European Civilian Border Assistance Mission for the Rafah Crossing Point (see EUROPE 13575/11) is ready to continue its work if requested by the parties. Thanks to its presence, nearly 3,000 people have been able to cross the border into Egypt since 1 February”, the spokesman said.
West Bank. On Saturday 1 March, the EU also expressed its deep concern at the consequences of the Israeli military operation, known as the ‘Iron Wall’, which has been going on for almost five weeks in the north of the West Bank, affecting refugee camps in particular.
“The EU calls on Israel, in addressing its security concerns in the occupied West Bank, to comply with its obligations under international humanitarian law by ensuring the protection of all civilians in military operations and allow the safe return of displaced persons to their homes”, the spokesman said in another statement on Saturday.
The EU has reiterated its condemnation of Israel’s policy of expanding settlements, calling on the Hebrew State - as an “occupying power” - to protect civilians, particularly in the face of “the violence of extremist settlers”.
“Demolitions, including those of structures funded by the EU and EU Member States, must stop”, said the spokesman. (Original version in French by Bernard Denuit)