UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on EU leaders to apply the same respect for international law in Gaza as they do for Ukraine. He emphasized the protection of civilians and urged against double standards. The UN warns of imminent famine in northern Gaza amid Israel’s potential ground offensive in Rafah. While the EU has been divided on Israel-Palestine, more countries are supporting a ceasefire. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar criticized Europe’s response, seeing it as undermining efforts to defend Ukraine. Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo urged Europe to lead in demanding an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian assistance. EU leaders are expected to call for a ceasefire and express concern about the potential Israeli ground offensive in Rafah. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s plan for a ground operation in Rafah is met with global alarm. The EU draft statement urges Israel to refrain from such an operation due to its devastating humanitarian consequences.
Daily Sabah