EU criticizes Israel for blocking humanitarian aid

The European Union on Sunday criticized Israel for blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza after Hamas called for the second phase of the cease-fire agreement to come into effect instead of extending the first.

“The EU condemns Hamas's refusal to accept the extension of the first phase of the cease-fire agreement in Gaza,” said Anwar al-Anouni, EU spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, in a statement, also denouncing “Israel’s decision to block the entry of any humanitarian aid to Gaza.”

“The EU calls for a swift resumption of negotiations for the second phase of the cease-fire and expresses its strong support for the mediators,” he added.

“A permanent cease-fire would contribute to the release of all remaining Israeli hostages while creating the necessary conditions for the start of recovery and reconstruction of Gaza,” Anouni said, adding that “all parties have the political responsibility to make this a reality.”

Hamas has repeatedly rejected an extension of the first phase of the cease-fire agreement, instead calling for the second phase to come into effect, which could lead to a permanent end to the conflict. The EU reiterated its call to allow “full, rapid, safe, and free access to large-scale humanitarian aid for Palestinians in need and to assist and enable humanitarian workers and international organizations to operate effectively and safely in Gaza.”

Israel announced Sunday it would suspend the entry of all goods and merchandise into the war-ravaged Gaza Strip, threatening “additional consequences” if Hamas did not agree to extend the first phase of the cease-fire agreement. In return, Hamas accused Israel of seeking to undermine the truce, which went into effect on Jan. 19 and has largely held since despite mutual accusations of cease-fire violations and the lack of agreement on its next phases.