Spain, Belgium PMs call for a permanent solution to ongoing situation in Gaza
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo called in a press conference held at the Rafah crossing on Friday for a permanent solution to the ongoing situation in Gaza.
Pedro Sánchez and Alexander De Croo visited the Rafah crossing after they met with President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi earlier on Friday.
During the press conference, Sánchez described the ongoing situation in Gaza as ‘the worst humanitarian disaster in modern times’.
“What is happening is a disaster, and we have dealt with it effectively, managing to stop the firing, leading to the arrival of aid, and we thank President Sisi for these achievements, as he helped us deliver humanitarian and medical assistance to Gaza,” Sánchez stated.
Sánchez also welcomed the recent release of hostages and emphasized the importance of securing the release of all individuals affected.
The Spanish PM cautioned against the cycle of violence, stating that further aggression will only lead to more violence.
He urged the international community to formally acknowledge the state of Palestine, highlighting the need for diplomatic recognition.
“We may decide to recognize the state of Palestine if the European Union does not,” Sánchez stated.
Furthermore, he called for an international peace conference that would bring both Palestinians and Israelis and stressed the importance of inclusive dialogue.
Sánchez stressed that the conference should be built on mutual recognition between the conflicting parties.
For his part, Belgium's Prime Minister Alexander De Croo called on Israel to cease the killing of civilians in the Gaza Strip.
De Croo stated that the destruction of the Gaza Strip is unacceptable and urged Hamas to exert all possible efforts to release all hostages.
He also emphasized that the temporary 4-day ceasefire in Gaza needs to transition into a permanent and lasting cessation of hostilities.
“We don't have time to waste; we must stand up and help,” De Croo said, expressing his gratitude to the leadership of Egypt for their significant assistance in sending medical aid and assistance of all kinds.
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