BRUSSELS / PNN /

The European Union on Saturday condemned the collapse of the ceasefire in Gaza and the deaths of civilians, including children, in Israeli airstrikes.

In a statement, the EU urged Israel to halt its military operations and called on Hamas to immediately release all hostages. It also pressed Israel to show restraint and allow the unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid and electricity into the besieged territory.

“We call on all parties to abide by their obligations under international humanitarian law,” the EU said, emphasizing that renewed negotiations are the only path forward.

“Palestinians and Israelis have suffered immensely over the past year and a half. It is time to break the cycle of violence,” the statement added, stressing that stability is essential for Gaza’s reconstruction.

Meanwhile, the Rafah border crossing remains closed until further notice. The EU’s border assistance mission, EUBAM Rafah, is not currently deploying personnel to the crossing but continues to monitor developments in the region.