LONDON: The EU on Saturday urged Israel to allow “immediate, unimpeded” humanitarian aid into Gaza and reopen all border crossings, warning that devastating floods and worsening winter conditions were deepening the humanitarian crisis in the enclave.
The bloc also expressed alarm over Thursday’s Israeli airstrike on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, which killed six people, including a surgeon, and injured at least 27 others.
In a statement issued on behalf of the EU, foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called on Israel to ensure the sustained delivery of humanitarian assistance and essential supplies, including shelter materials and medical equipment, as displaced Palestinians struggle with severe flooding and freezing winter conditions.
“After a year since the ceasefire was announced, military strikes continue and shortages of essential items, including suitable shelter, medicine and medical equipment, caused by the existing access restrictions persist, resulting in the absence of acceptable and dignified living conditions,” the statement read.
The EU also stressed that civilians, medical personnel and healthcare facilities must be protected under international humanitarian law, describing the latest strike on Nasser Hospital as “deeply alarming.”
The attack hit the hospital’s surgical department, causing extensive damage and disrupting medical services at one of Gaza’s few remaining functioning hospitals.
Israel’s military said it had targeted a Hamas commander and other militants allegedly operating inside the facility but…