Eight European countries express serious concern over situation in Gaza

(MENAFN) Foreign ministers from eight European countries, along with Canada, Japan, and Iceland, on Tuesday voiced “serious concerns” about the worsening humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. The joint statement emphasized the “catastrophic” conditions facing civilians, particularly as winter exacerbates the crisis, with 1.3 million Gazans still requiring urgent shelter assistance.

The ministers referenced the December Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report, highlighting the ongoing desperate needs of the population. While acknowledging the recent ceasefire, they stressed that the humanitarian plight cannot be overlooked.

The statement urged Israel to allow the UN, its partners, and NGOs to continue operations without undue restrictions, particularly regarding imports considered of dual use. Officials warned that many international NGOs face deregistration under Israel’s new regulations, which could force the closure of essential humanitarian services within 60 days in Gaza and the West Bank, severely impacting access to healthcare and other critical aid.

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