France, Germany, and the UK Express Concern Over Israel's Suspension of Humanitarian Aid to Gaza

France, Germany, and the UK Express Concern Over Israel's Suspension of Humanitarian Aid to Gaza

France, Germany, and the UK on Wednesday expressed "deep concern" over Israel's decision to suspend humanitarian aid to Gaza and called on all parties to come together to begin discussions on the next phase of the ceasefire agreement.

In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of the three countries said, "It is vital that the ceasefire is sustained, all hostages are released, and continued flows of humanitarian aid to Gaza are ensured."

They urged all parties to engage constructively in negotiating the next phase of the deal, ensuring its full implementation and a permanent end to hostilities. Additionally, they praised the mediation efforts of Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, welcoming their attempts to extend the ceasefire.

Regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the three countries stated, "The situation in Gaza is catastrophic." They called on the Israeli government to ensure the "full, rapid, safe, and unhindered provision of humanitarian assistance" to the population of Gaza.

The statement further noted, "Humanitarian aid should never be contingent on a ceasefire or used as a political tool. We reiterate that the civilians of Gaza, who have suffered so much, must be allowed to return to their homes and rebuild their lives."

This follows Israel's decision to halt aid shipments to Gaza shortly after the first phase of the ceasefire and prisoner swap agreement between Hamas and Tel Aviv expired.

The previous six-week ceasefire agreement, which came into effect on January 19, officially ended at midnight on Saturday. However, Israel has not agreed to move forward to the second phase of the deal, which could bring an end to the war in Gaza and lead to permanent peace. So far, more than 48,000 people, mostly women and children, have been killed in the conflict.

Last November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Israel is also facing genocide charges at the International Court of Justice.