EU Warns Israel Over Gaza Starvation Crisis; US Envoy Seeks Ceasefire
At least 101 Palestinians have died from starvation in Gaza, prompting the European Union to warn Israel of potential action if humanitarian aid pledges aren't met. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated that "all options remain on the table" if Israel fails to deliver on its commitments to increase aid flow into Gaza. Kallas called Israel's killing of civilians seeking aid "indefensible" and said she spoke with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar about the issue. Despite previous agreements to increase aid trucks, crossing points, and routes, aid officials report no increase in humanitarian assistance.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, will travel to Europe, possibly to Rome, for ceasefire talks and discussions on establishing an aid corridor for Gaza. The US State Department expressed hope for a ceasefire and humanitarian corridor, but spokesperson Tammy Bruce cautioned that the situation is dynamic. Israel, which cut off most goods in March, has allowed limited aid through the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), bypassing the UN. Over 1000 Palestinians have been killed at or near GHF aid distribution points, according to the UN. The GHF has rejected the UN's figures.
Israel and Hamas remain divided on the extent of Israeli troop withdrawal in any ceasefire agreement, according to officials involved in US-mediated talks for a 60-day truce involving prisoner exchanges. Qatar has called for increased international pressure on Israel, citing its treatment of Palestinians and broader regional instability.
Impact Statement: The worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the international diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire and aid corridor have significant implications for regional stability and the lives of Palestinians in the besieged territory.