Gaza - May 14, 2024

"If Israel were to continue its military operation in Rafah, it would inevitably put a great strain on the EU's relationship with Israel," EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Josep Borrell said in a statement.
The EU-27 therefore called on Israel to "immediately end its military operation in Rafah", as "it is further disrupting the distribution of humanitarian aid in Gaza and is causing further internal displacement, exposure to famine and human suffering".

More than one million civilians have taken refuge in and around Rafah and have been asked to evacuate to areas that the UN says cannot be considered safe.

While the EU recognises Israel's right to defend itself, it must do so in accordance with international humanitarian law and provide safety for civilians, Borrell stressed once again, calling on Israel to "refrain from further exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and to reopen the Rafah crossing".

According to international humanitarian law, Israel must allow and facilitate the unimpeded passage of humanitarian aid for civilians, the EU said, as the International Court of Justice made clear in its orders of 26 January and 28 March.

In this regard, the EU also condemns the Hamas attack on the Kerem Shalom crossing, which has further obstructed the delivery of humanitarian aid. The EU therefore urged all parties to redouble their efforts to achieve an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas.

SHOTLIST:
1. various killed in Nuseirat refugee camp;
2. various of destruction in Nuseirat;
3. various buildings destroyed in Rafah.