Germany, Britain, and France jointly demanded an immediate halt to Israel’s Gaza City military operations on Friday, warning of mass civilian displacement and destruction of essential infrastructure.
The three nations issued a stern joint statement stressing that all remaining hostages must be released immediately while humanitarian aid floods Gaza to prevent famine. They specifically called for UN agencies and humanitarian groups to operate safely and at scale across the entire Gaza Strip, including the northern areas. Furthermore, the ministers emphasized that the focus must remain on achieving a permanent ceasefire and stopping the worsening humanitarian crisis.
Qatar Strike Sparks Regional Concerns
European ministers confirmed Israel’s strike on Hamas officials in Doha violates Qatar’s sovereignty and risks major regional escalation, undermining peace efforts. Qatar plays a vital role in mediating between Israel and Hamas, the ministers noted, following Hamas’ 7 October attacks that started the war. Additionally, they condemned the strike as a dangerous provocation threatening regional stability.
In a related development, the United States backed a UN Security Council resolution that condemned the strikes in Qatar, although it did not name Israel directly. Concurrently, the UN General Assembly voted to support a resolution advocating for a two-state solution, a decision that Israel immediately denounced as “disgraceful.”
