Brussels: The European Union has called on Israel to allow international NGOs to operate and deliver life-saving aid to civilians in need in Palestine. "Without these international NGOs, humanitarian aid cannot be delivered at the scale needed to prevent further loss of life in Gaza," said a joint statement issued by High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management, Hadja Lahbib, and Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka … uica.

According to Emirates News Agency, the EU emphasized the necessity of allowing international NGOs to function in a sustained and predictable manner to ensure rapid and safe delivery of aid. The statement highlighted that humanitarian aid delivery and service provision for civilians depend on access, urging all parties to the conflict to abide by International Humanitarian Law to facilitate unhindered passage of humanitarian relief.

The European Council further stressed the importance of rapid, safe, and unimpeded delivery and distribution of humanitarian aid throughout Gaza. In light of the worsening humanitarian situation, the EU urged Israel to reconsider the implementation of the current NGO registration law, which could hamper aid efforts.

The statement noted the deteriorating conditions in Gaza as winter approaches, leaving Palestinians vulnerable to harsh weather without adequate shelter. Additionally, children remain out of schools, and medical facilities struggle to function with limited staff and equipment.