EU leaders Charles Michel and Ursula von der Leyen made a strong appeal for immediate humanitarian action and reiterated the EU’s support for a two-state solution in Gaza during a joint press conference after the European Council in Brussels. Michel warned against an Israeli ground operation in Rafah, highlighting its potential dire humanitarian consequences. Von der Leyen emphasized the urgent need for a humanitarian pause and announced EU measures to ensure unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza, including endorsing a maritime corridor from Cyprus. The leaders called for the unconditional release of hostages and provision of essential aid to Gaza, advocating for 500 trucks of aid daily via all available routes. They reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to a two-state solution and urged Israel to refrain from a ground operation in Rafah.
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