Luxembourg: EU Commissioner for Preparedness, Crisis Management and Equality, Hadja Lahbib, has highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza due to Israel’s blockade on humanitarian aid. Lahbib stated that essential aid is being obstructed, resulting in food supplies rotting outside the region while Gaza faces critical shortages.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency – WAFA, Lahbib made these remarks in a statement addressing the ongoing situation in Gaza and the West Bank prior to a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg. She underscored three pressing priorities for Gaza: resuming the ceasefire, facilitating humanitarian aid entry, and addressing the dire humanitarian conditions caused by the blockade.
Lahbib pointed out that for over a month, Gaza has not received any form of aid, food, electricity, or even basic sustenance. She explained that although warehouses outside Gaza are stocked with food, supplies are dwindling within the Strip, and food is spoiling outside due to inaccessibility, with at least 100 children being killed or injured daily.
She further noted that Israel has not permitted humanitarian aid missions in the region for a significant period, leaving Gaza and the West Bank devoid of international staff presence. Lahbib also expressed concern over the escalating situation in the West Bank, marked by forced displacement and violence, calling for decisive political action.
Additionally, she announced that a high-level political dialogue between the European Union and Palestine will be initiated, involving Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa, to address cooperation, bilateral relations, and the needs of the Palestinian population following the foreign ministers’ meeting.