Brussels [Belgium], March 15: Members of the European Parliament (MEP) have expressed their deep concern about the "catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, including the risk of imminent starvation."
In a resolution adopted by 372 votes in favour, 44 against and 120 abstentions, MEPs call on Israel to immediately allow and facilitate full aid delivery into and throughout Gaza via all existing crossings and underline the urgent need for rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access. They reiterate their call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire to address the looming risk of mass starvation in Gaza and to immediately and unconditionally release all hostages. The International Committee of the Red Cross must be given immediate access to all Israeli hostages being held in Gaza to provide them with medical care.
The Parliament welcomes maritime aid corridors for Gaza but underlines that land distribution needs to be the priority. Pointing to the spread of diseases and the confirmed deaths of children due to malnutrition and dehydration, MEPs urge Israeli authorities to open the Rafah, Kerem Shalom, Karmi and Erez crossings.
MEPs strongly condemn the obstruction of humanitarian aid and attacks against humanitarian convoys.
Source: Emirates News Agency