According to EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas, Israel has committed to enhancing the provision of aid to civilians in the Gaza Strip. The measures, which are expected to be implemented over the coming days, follow decisions made by the Israeli cabinet and a constructive dialogue between the EU and Israel.
Both parties have affirmed the necessity for large-scale, direct delivery of assistance to the population and a continued commitment to preventing aid diversion to the Hamas organization.
The planned enhancements include a significant increase in the daily number of trucks delivering food and other essential goods to Gaza. Further steps involve the opening of multiple border crossings in the north and south of the region, alongside the re-establishment of humanitarian aid routes through Jordan and Egypt. Distribution of food through bakeries and public kitchens across Gaza is also slated to resume. Furthermore, the restoration of fuel supplies to humanitarian facilities, aiming for operational capacity, is planned.
EU officials state a willingness to coordinate with all relevant humanitarian actors, UN organizations and non-governmental organizations operating within the region to facilitate the rapid implementation of these urgent measures. Simultaneously, the EU continues to advocate for an immediate ceasefire and the release of all remaining hostages, whilst supporting the ongoing mediation efforts led by Egypt, Qatar and the United States.