KUALA LUMPUR – All European Union countries except Hungary voiced their support for an “immediate humanitarian pause” in the Gaza war, its foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell said.
The European Union has struggled for a united response to Israel’s military operation following the October 7 attack by Hamas, according to AFP.
But Borrell said foreign ministers from 26 states had agreed to a statement calling for “an immediate humanitarian pause that would lead to a sustainable ceasefire”.
The EU countries also reiterated their calls for Israel not to launch an assault on the Gaza city of Rafah, which has become the main shelter zone in the stricken territory.
Hungary is a staunch supporter of Israel and has frequently refused to go along with EU statements deemed critical of the country.
Other EU nations, such as Germany, have been reluctant until now to call for an “immediate” halt in Israel’s operations. It has avoided supporting any action that might restrict Israel’s right to defend itself.
The war started when Hamas launched its unprecedented attack on October 7 that left about 1,160 people dead in southern Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of official Israeli figures.
The Health Ministry in the Hamas-run territory reports that the Israeli military operation in Gaza has killed over 29,000 people, mostly women and children.
Hamas also took about 250 hostages, 130 of whom remain in Gaza, including 30 presumed dead, according to Israel.
Israel has warned that, unless Hamas frees all hostages, it will push on with its offensive during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, including in Rafah. – February 20, 2024