EU wants new aid access points into Gaza implemented “swiftly”

Martin Banks
GAZA STRIP - JANUARY 14 2009: Aerial bombing explosion in Gaza Strip during Cast Lead operation. It was a three-week armed conflict in the Gaza Strip during the winter of 2008-2009.

Belgium (Brussels Morning Newspaper) Israel’s decision to open more humanitarian aid access points into Gaza has been welcomed by the international community, including the EU.

In response to the move, the European Commission said it “takes note” of Prime Minister Netanyahu’s announcement which follows his phone call with US President Biden.

The EC noted in particular the commitments to open the Ashdod port, as well as the Erez crossing to let aid flow directly into north Gaza, and to significantly boost deliveries from Jordan.

A commission spokesman on Friday issued a statement which said, “These steps should be implemented swiftly and fully.”

It went on, “In addition, the Commission reiterates its call to protect innocent civilians and aid workers, in line with international humanitarian law. 

“The Commission also calls on all actors in the region to urgently enable a significant surge in the in-flow of humanitarian assistance into Gaza.”

The European Commission said it “will continue its intense work with regional and global partners, the United Nations and partner NGOs, to increase aid deliveries to Gaza via all possible routes – land, air and sea, including via the Maritime Corridor.”

The spokesman added, “The European Union has significantly increased its financial and humanitarian support to the people of Palestine and has launched 44 flights, carrying almost 2,000 tonnes of aid so far, as part of its EU Humanitarian Air Bridge operation.”

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Brussels Morning is a daily online newspaper based in Belgium. BM publishes unique and independent coverage on international and European affairs. With a Europe-wide perspective, BM covers policies and politics of the EU, significant Member State developments, and looks at the international agenda with a European perspective.
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Martin Banks is an experienced British-born journalist who has been covering the EU beat (and much else besides) in Brussels since 2001. Previously, he had worked for many years in regional journalism in the UK and freelanced for national titles. He has a keen interest in foreign affairs and has closely followed the workings of the European Parliament and MEPs in particular for some years.
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