LONDON, July 25 (KUNA) -- The United Kingdom, France and Germany underscored Friday that the time has come to end the war in Gaza and the humanitarian catastrophe in the tiny strip.
"A negotiated ceasefire is the best chance to bring the hostages home, end the anguish of their families and finally bring relief to the civilian population in Gaza," leaders of the three European countries (E3) said in a joint statement.
They reaffirmed commitment to supporting the diplomatic efforts of the United States, Qatar, and Egypt.
They stressed that the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza must end now.
"The most basic needs of the civilian population, including access to water and food, must be met without any further delay. Withholding essential humanitarian assistance to the civilian population is unacceptable." "We call on the Israeli Government to immediately lift restrictions on the flow of aid and urgently allow the UN and humanitarian NGOs to carry out their work in order to take action against starvation. Israel must uphold its obligations under international humanitarian law," they said. The European leaders also voiced firm opposition to all efforts to impose Israeli sovereignty over the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
"Threats of annexation, settlements and acts of settler violence against Palestinians undermine the prospects for a negotiated two-state solution," added the statement.
They reiterated committed to working together with international partners including at the United Nations to develop a specific and credible plan for the next phase in Gaza that will put in place transitional governance and security arrangements, and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid at scale.
"This must be accompanied by the withdrawal of Israeli forces and the removal of Hamas leadership, as key steps towards a negotiated two-state solution." "We stand ready to take further action to support an immediate ceasefire and a political process that leads to lasting security and peace for Israelis, Palestinians and the entire region," they concluded. (end) nbs.ibi