The Presidency of the EU expresses its grave concern at the reports that humanitarian work by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has been suspended due to a lack of fuel supplies needed for its work.
The EU is a major provider of assistance to the population of Gaza, both through support for UNRWA and direct assistance (the entire supply for the Gaza power station and social hardship payments).
While welcoming the recent resumption of fuel supplies, the Presidency urges regular and unrestricted delivery of fuel supplies to the Gaza Strip in order not to aggravate further the humanitarian crisis there. The Presidency reiterates the EU’s call on all parties to work urgently for the controlled re-opening of the crossings in and out of Gaza for both humanitarian reasons and commercial flows.
Hamas and other militant groups in Gaza have their share in aggravating the humanitarian situation, including through carrying out the attacks on the Nahal Oz and Kerem Shalom crossings. The Presidency condemns such actions which only lead to further suffering of the population.
