In a strong show of international concern, the foreign ministers of 22 countries have jointly demanded that Israel immediately allow a full and unrestricted resumption of humanitarian aid into Gaza. The call follows Israel’s recent move to permit a limited restart of aid operations, which the nations deemed inadequate amid the worsening humanitarian crisis in the besieged territory, reported the Gaurdian.
The signatories of the joint statement include Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Spain, the United Kingdom, and other European nations such as Belgium, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, and Sweden.
“As humanitarian donors, we have two straightforward messages for the Government of Israel: allow a full resumption of aid into Gaza immediately, and enable the UN and humanitarian organisations to work independently and impartially,” the statement read.
The declaration emphasized that prior to the Israeli-imposed aid blockade, humanitarian groups had been operating in Gaza under extreme conditions, maintaining neutrality and impartiality. It also warned against Israel’s proposed new aid delivery model, which the UN and NGOs argue undermines humanitarian principles by linking aid to political and military agendas.
“Humanitarian principles matter in every conflict, and aid must not be politicized,” the statement declared. It further urged Israel not to implement any measures that would result in demographic changes to Palestinian territories.
The joint statement also called on Hamas to immediately release all remaining hostages and not obstruct aid distribution. Reaffirming their commitment to addressing the crisis, the nations stressed that a return to a ceasefire and progress toward a two-state solution are essential for long-term peace in the region.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with food, medicine, and essential supplies running dangerously low. The international community continues to press for immediate and unfettered humanitarian access.
