Gaza: As tensions escalate in Rafah, Gaza, following Israel’s airstrikes and hints of a ground operation, the European Union (EU) has stepped in, appealing to the Israeli government to refrain from military action in the city. Rafah, housing over 1.3 million displaced Palestinians, faces an already dire humanitarian crisis.
Josep Borrell, the EU’s high representative for foreign affairs and security policy, emphasized that military intervention in Rafah “would worsen an already catastrophic humanitarian situation and prevent the urgently needed provision of basic services and humanitarian assistance.” His statement, issued on Friday, echoes concerns over exacerbating the plight of civilians.
Furthermore, Borrell underscored the importance of upholding international humanitarian law, citing the Jan. 26 order from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which deemed Israel responsible for preventing genocide acts in the Gaza Strip. The EU insists on respecting this legally binding decision.
While recognizing Israel’s right to self-defense within the bounds of international law, Borrell emphasized the EU’s call for Hamas to immediately and unconditionally release all hostages. The statement comes amid escalating tensions in the region, with calls for restraint and adherence to legal and humanitarian standards.