Germany, France, UK stress need to maintain ceasefire and aid flow to Gaza Strip

Cairo- Nessma Youssef

The foreign ministers of Germany, France, and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement on the arrival of humanitarian aid to Gaza.

In the joint statement, the foreign ministers of Germany, France, and the United Kingdom affirmed their continued support for the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, and said: “It is essential to maintain the ceasefire, release all hostages, and ensure the continued flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza.”

They urged all parties to engage constructively in negotiations in the subsequent stages of the agreement to ensure its full implementation and achieve a permanent end to hostilities. They also welcomed the mediation efforts made by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, and the pursuit of an agreement to extend the ceasefire.

They pointed out that “the humanitarian situation in Gaza is catastrophic,” expressing their deep concern over the Israeli government’s announcement on March 2 to prevent the entry of any goods and supplies into Gaza. They called on the Government of Israel to comply with its international obligations and ensure the full, rapid, safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza, including the provision of medical supplies, shelter, water and hygiene items, which are essential to meet humanitarian needs and early reconstruction in Gaza, but are restricted under Israel’s “dual-use items” list.

They explained that the cessation of the entry of goods and supplies into Gaza, as announced by the Government of Israel, would constitute a violation of international humanitarian law, noting that “humanitarian assistance should never be linked to a ceasefire or used as a political tool.” They also reiterated “the need to allow the people of Gaza, who have suffered so much, to return to their homes and rebuild their lives.”

They explained that “all hostages must be released unconditionally, and Hamas must end its humiliating and degrading treatment of them.” They also affirmed their full solidarity with the families of the hostages and with the Israeli people in the face of the attacks perpetrated by Hamas on October 7, 2023.

They concluded the statement by saying: “We need all parties to commit to a ceasefire, ensuring that it leads to a sustainable peace, the reconstruction of Gaza, and a credible path towards a two-state solution, where Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in peace.”