EU Commissioner calls for immediate ceasefire and humanitarian access in Gaza

Speaking at the Gaza Humanitarian Summit "Call for Action: Urgent Humanitarian Response for Gaza" in Amman, Lenarčič emphasized the dire need to alleviate the suffering of Gaza's population, which is overwhelmingly dependent on humanitarian aid.

Lenarčič highlighted the severe challenges faced by humanitarian actors over the past eight months, noting that the level of aid allowed into Gaza has reached unacceptably low levels. He stressed that a ceasefire is crucial for delivering life-saving aid and securing the release of hostages.

"The vast majority of the population of the Gaza Strip is fully dependent on humanitarian aid," Lenarčič stated. "Despite all the efforts of humanitarian actors, often at great risk to themselves, the amount of aid allowed into Gaza has fallen to unacceptably low levels."

He praised the vital work of United Nations agency staff, who have faced unprecedented attacks during the crisis, and called for their protection and facilitation.

The conference in Amman provided a platform for the international community to reflect and share priorities, including ensuring full humanitarian access to Gaza, protecting civilians, and identifying early recovery priorities.

Lenarčič warned that the humanitarian situation and severe food insecurity in Gaza are likely to worsen, exacerbated by rising temperatures and damaged sewage and waste treatment systems, which are creating a health and sanitation crisis.

"Aid is piling up at Gaza's borders while children are dying of hunger just a few kilometers away. We can and we must stop this catastrophe," he said.

He called for the reopening of the Rafah crossing point, as well as the full utilization of Kerem Shalom, crossing points in the North of Gaza, the Jordan corridor, and any other available access routes.

Lenarčič emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of humanitarian personnel assisting the most vulnerable and reiterated the EU's readiness to increase its support for the Jordan corridor as a vital route for channeling assistance to Gaza.

"The EU calls on Israel and all parties involved to abide by International Humanitarian Law to avoid further bloodshed among innocent civilians. The time for action is now," he concluded. (ILKHA)