Following the suspension of aid: Europe launches rare attack against Israel

Despite backing from Trump, the foreign ministers of the UK, France, and Germany released a statement earlier today, sharply criticizing Israel for its decision to halt the humanitarian aid, most of which is directed to Hamas in Gaza.

"We, the foreign ministers of Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, reiterate our continued support for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas," the three diplomats began.

They stated, "It is essential that the ceasefire be maintained, all hostages be released, and that humanitarian aid continues to flow into the Gaza Strip. We call on all parties to engage in constructive negotiations on the next steps of the agreement to contribute to its full implementation and a permanent cessation of hostilities. We welcome the mediation efforts of Egypt, Qatar, and the United States in reaching an agreement to extend the ceasefire," the Europeans said.

"The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is catastrophic. We are deeply concerned that the Israeli government has announced its decision to cut off the entry of all goods and supplies into Gaza. We call on the Israeli government to honor its international commitments so that humanitarian aid reaches the population of the Gaza Strip in a full, swift, safe, and unimpeded manner. This is especially important for the delivery of certain items such as medical supplies, shelter materials, water and sanitation equipment, which are essential for addressing the humanitarian needs and reconstruction of Gaza, but are subject to restrictions under Israel's 'dual-use' list of products," the foreign ministers said in the statement.

The foreign ministers argue in the statement that "interrupting the entry of goods and supplies into Gaza, as announced by the Israeli government, could constitute a violation of international humanitarian law. Humanitarian aid cannot be conditioned on a ceasefire, nor should it be used for political purposes. We reaffirm that the civilian population in Gaza, which has suffered so much, must be allowed to return to their homes and rebuild their lives," they wrote.

"All hostages must be released unconditionally, and Hamas must end the degrading and humiliating treatment they are subjected to. We continue in resolute solidarity with their families and with Israel in light of the terrorist attacks carried out by Hamas on October 7, 2023."

"All parties must respect the ceasefire, ensure it leads to lasting peace, the reconstruction of Gaza, and allow a credible path to a two-state solution, where Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in peace," the three concluded their letter.

It should be noted that the three foreign ministers did not demand that Hamas end its rule in Gaza, something that even the Arab summit is attempting to achieve these days with the proposal presented this week in Cairo.