Brussels - Saba:
The leaders of the 27 European Union member states called for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip on Thursday evening, noting that European discussions on a report on Israel's compliance with the terms of the Association Agreement with the bloc will continue next July, taking into account developments on the ground.
Following a discussion on the Middle East in Brussels, the European leaders said: "The European Council calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the unconditional release of all prisoners, leading to a permanent cessation of hostilities."
The Council expressed "deep regret at the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza, the unacceptable number of civilian casualties, and the levels of famine," calling on Israel to "fully lift the blockade imposed on Gaza, allow immediate and unhindered access and the sustained and widespread distribution of humanitarian aid throughout Gaza, and enable the United Nations, its agencies, and humanitarian organizations to operate with independence and impartiality to save lives and alleviate suffering."