The EU called on Israel to immediately end the military operation in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip, saying it is disrupting humanitarian aid operations and leading to more displacement, hunger and human suffering.
European diplomacy chief Josep Borrell noted Israel's right to self-defense, but stressed that Israel must follow international law and protect civilians, reports Reuters.
"The European Union calls on Israel to refrain from further deteriorating the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and to reopen the Rafah crossing. – Borrell said. – If Israel continues its military operation in Rafah, this will inevitably lead to serious complications in relations between the EU and Israel..
Borrell also called on Hamas to unconditionally release all hostages held in the Gaza Strip.
Prepared by: Sergey Daga