The key facts

  • The EU called for all crossings into Gaza to be opened and for immediate humanitarian aid delivery.
  • The statement highlights the worsening situation due to floods and winter conditions.
  • The EU condemned the strike on Nasser Hospital and the continuation of attacks a year after the ceasefire announcement.

Demand to open crossings

The European Union on Friday called on Israel to reopen all border crossings into the Gaza Strip and ensure the immediate and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid. In a statement cited by Anadolu, the bloc expressed 'serious concern over the ongoing and devastating humanitarian crisis in Gaza,' noting that severe floods and winter conditions have further worsened the situation of an already exhausted population.

Claims and demands directed at the parties

The EU condemned the recent airstrike on Nasser Hospital, calling it 'extremely alarming,' and emphasized the need to protect civilians, civilian infrastructure, medical personnel, and facilities. The bloc demanded that Israel ensure humanitarian aid and early recovery support 'at the necessary scale,' as well as create conditions for the work of the UN, its agencies, and humanitarian organizations, including NGOs. At the same time, the statement noted that aid must be used exclusively for peaceful purposes and must not be intercepted by armed groups.

Context: ceasefire and access restrictions

The statement noted that military strikes continue a year after the ceasefire announcement, and access restrictions have contributed to shortages of essential items—adequate shelter, medicines, and medical equipment. Thus, the demand to open crossings is linked by the EU not only to weather factors but also to persistent barriers to supply. The publication does not report on Israel's reaction to the statement.