KABUL: European countries, including Germany, France, and Britain, have jointly called for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, ABC News reported on Friday.
According to the report, the three countries issued a joint statement following an emergency call regarding the war in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis in the region.
In addition to an immediate ceasefire, they also called for the release of Israeli captives.
The statement emphasized that the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza must end immediately, and the most basic needs of the civilian population, including access to water and food, must be provided without further delay. Prevention of vital humanitarian aid for civilians is unacceptable.
Furthermore, Germany, Britain, and France have called for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip and the removal of Hamas leadership, referring to these actions as “key steps” towards a two-state solution.
The three countries declared their opposition to any imposition of Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Palestinian territories.
Notably, the French President previously announced that France would recognize Palestine as an independent state at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in more than a month.
Reports also indicate that pressure is mounting on the British government to take similar steps regarding Palestine.