EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell characterized Gaza as the world’s largest “open-air graveyard,” marking a dire shift from what he previously described as the largest open-air prison, due to the ongoing conflict. Speaking in Brussels, Borrell highlighted the massive toll on both human lives and the principles of humanitarian law in Gaza.
The statement was made as EU ministers convened to discuss the EU-Israel Association Agreement, focusing on its political aspects and adherence to humanitarian law, rather than proposing a full suspension of the agreement.
Belgian Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib underscored the insufficiency of humanitarian aid alone to address the crisis, advocating for a resolution rooted in political will. Despite efforts to deliver aid to Gazans, Lahbib called for unrestricted land access, expressing frustration over the blocked delivery of essential supplies at the Egyptian border.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has deteriorated significantly since Israel’s military campaign in response to a Hamas attack on Oct. 7, which Israel reported resulted in nearly 1,200 deaths. The ongoing conflict has led to over 31,700 Palestinian deaths, widespread displacement, and a deepening humanitarian crisis among the enclave’s 2.3 million residents.–Web Desk